Rafael Rivera

Rafael Rivera, 83, of Atlantic Highlands, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026, at Bayshore Medical Center in Holmdel, New Jersey. Born on August 6, 1942, in the beautiful town of Rincon, Puerto Rico, Rafael's journey through life was marked by love, dedication, and family.

Rafael's early years in Rincon were filled with the warmth of his parents, Pantaleon and Isabel (Pagan) Rivera, both of whom predeceased him. His adventurous spirit led him to the Bronx, New York, at 15 years old, where he would later meet his beloved wife, Maria (Negron) Rivera. Their love story began and after marriage, they started their family together in the Bronx, before settling in Keansburg, New Jersey in 1989, where they remained to raise their family. About 20 years ago, Rafael moved to Atlantic Highlands, where he remained.

Rafael's professional life was as vibrant as his personal one. As the owner of Sidney Co., a bead distributor in the garment district of Manhattan, he was known for his keen business acumen and the close relationships he built with his clients and colleagues. His retirement marked the end of a successful career, but the beginning of more cherished moments with his family and friends. He was also a die-hard New York Yankees fan; a passion he shared with his family throughout his life.

Although his wife Maria, his son Rafael Rivera Jr., and grandson Joshua Rivera have passed on before him, their memories remained a guiding light in his life. A true patriarch, Rafael is survived by his loving family, including his daughter Barbara Roman and her husband Edwin, his daughter-in-law Agnes Rivera, his closest brother Pedro Rivera and a few other siblings, his adoring grandchildren Johnathan Rivera, Elias Roman, and Elliott Roman. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren Jayden Rivera, Rocco Rivera, and Giovanna Rivera, who will carry on the values he instilled in them.

As we bid farewell to Rafael Rivera, we celebrate a life well-lived, a family well-loved, and a man who will always be remembered for his loving heart and enduring spirit. His story does not end here, for he lives on in the hearts of his family and the many lives he touched.

In respect of his family's wishes, Rafael's services will remain private. Arrangements were entrusted to Shore Point Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 3269 State Highway 35 North, Hazlet, New Jersey 07730. For information or to send condolences to his family, please visit, www.shorepointfh.com.