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Jose Rivera Obituary
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He is survived by his partner, Patrice I. Mitchell, his two daughters Lea Rivera, nurse and The Rev. Dr. Marta S. Rivera Monclova, priest, as well as his son-in-law Carlos T. Russell, his foster-son Jermaine M. Gaither Sr., and his two grandchildren Mariabella Rivera-Todaro and Marco Joseph Rivera Todaro. His grandchildren were the delight of his life.
A veteran of the U.S. Air Force and graduate of Manhattan College and New York University Law School, José built a civil rights law firm and later a consulting business, specializing in community organizing. José dedicated much of his life to fighting for civil rights, successfully bringing discrimination suits against TWA on behalf of flight attendants and the 21 Club which at the time refused to hire women as servers. One of his proudest accomplishments was being appointed in 1979 to the Board of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, by the late President Jimmy Carter.
In his off time, in his younger days he enjoyed paddleball and handball, and never lost his love of hiking, especially the Labyrinth trail at Mohonk Mountain House. He enjoyed travel, for work or pleasure, combining this with his love of fine wine on trips to Napa. His favorite song was "The Reverend Mr. Black" by the Kingston Trio.
The funeral will be held at Christ Church, Poughkeepsie, located at 20 Carroll Street, on Tuesday April 15, at 11AM, followed by a repass at Vineyard Commons, Merlot Drive, Highland.
Funeral arrangements were entrusted to the DiDonato Funeral Service, Inc. (845) 236-4300, www.didonatofuneralservice.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
5 Entries
Deonka Thompson
April 16, 2025
Jose, was a man of extraordinary talents, and gifts. He was an inspiration to my life, he once told my ex-husband not to clip my wings as he would regret it, and this is exactly what happened. He was the man who took a perfect stranger and carried her his own daughter by stepping in for her father in her wedding. He always gave me fatherly advice, and would always be respected for that. To the family, thank you for sharing such a humble and gracious man. I apologize for not making the funeral, but I was out of the country, and will continually keep you all in my prayers. I will miss your father/grandfather/husband, and thank you all for sharing him with the world.
Pharissa Robinson
April 14, 2025
Jose´s life was woven together by a diverse tapestry of rich experiences, people and accomplishments. Though for what seems like only a siloed period of life we got to enjoy him, his humor, strategic outlook all things professional, adventurous spirit and wonderful business & legal acumen, we were blessed to have bumped into each other in this life. Recalling that first bump and first meeting, I can almost hear him say with glee "excuse me" and immediately with karmic recognition we entered into a world of what could be exploring limitless possibilities of all the potential Jose saw in everything & everyone. He left every place & everyone that was graced with his presence better than what they were before. The Healthy Starts all over this USA are grateful for the invaluable time & commitment Jose poured into improving the communities of women & children. We will miss him. He was loved. Pharissa Robinson, Esq. & Family
Anne Baudier
April 14, 2025
In loving memory of a wonderful person. It was a true blessing to have worked with you.
Anne Baudier RN CCHC
Denise Mason Bullitt
April 13, 2025
Rest in peace, friend. While our time on earth was brief, I am glad that I had the opportunity to serve beside you. In your honor, we will carry on.
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Anita Singleton Prather
April 13, 2025
I don't have words to express my gratitude to GOD THE FATHER, for allowing José to be a blessing to my life, Gullah Kinfolk Traveling Theater, and so many in Beaufort SC. He was an awesome mentor and friend. He will truly be missed.
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