Joann Rivera

Joann Moore Rivera was born on January 9, 1943 to the late Aaron Moore and Jose Cole Moore in Meridian, Mississippi. On October 15, 2025, Joann passed from labor to reward surrounded by her loving family.
Joann was a graduate of Booker T. Washington Senior High School, Class of 1961 in New Orleans, Louisiana. After High School, Joann pursued higher education at Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Following her studies, she relocated to Monticello, New York, where she embarked on a new chapter of her life when she met and married the love of her life, Ismael C. Rivera. Their blessed union, spanning 51 beautiful years, brought forth a loving family of children and grandchildren. While residing in Monticello, Joann dedicated herself to her career, working at Sullivan ARC as a Direct Support Professional until her retirement in 2005.
Joann enjoyed several passions and hobbies, which included singing, writing poetry, and studying the Bible. She was an integral part of the First Baptist Church in Monticello, a devoted member for over 30 years, where she served faithfully as Deaconess President.
Joann will always be remembered for the bonds of love she formed with friends and for the long-lasting relationships she had with members of her church and former colleagues. She left an indelible mark on the lives she touched.
A loving family is left behind to cherish her memories, her devoted husband, Ismael C. Rivera of Monticello, NY; son, Kinnie Washington, of Bloomingburg, NY; and daughters, Debra Rivera Speight (Reginald) of Wilson, NC, and Melissa Rivera of Buffalo, NY. Also left to cherish her memories are her granddaughter, Naija Speight; grandsons, Justice Rivera and Devon Rivera; sister, Letha Mathews, of New Orleans, LA; and a host of family and friends.
Joann was predeceased by her parents; son, Keith Andrew Rivera; sister, Minnie Raby; and brothers, Lionel Moore, Willie Moore, and Freddie Moore.
Joann Moore Rivera was a beautiful soul, whose loving spirit will continue to flourish in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Her life was a blessing and her memory a treasure. May she take her well deserved rest.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025 from 11am to 12pm at The First Baptist Church, located at 28 Liberty Street, Monticello, NY 12701. Funeral services will begin at 12pm with Pastor Nettie Womack officating. Followed by burial at St. Peter's Cemetery in Monticello, NY.
Arrangements are under the direction of the VanInwegen Kenny Funeral Home of Monticello, NY. For additional information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.kennyfuneralhome.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joann, please visit our floral store.