Roy Onesimo Rivera

Roy Onesimo Rivera

Roy Onesimo Rivera transitioned peacefully to Heaven on September 4, 2024, at home with his immediate family present. Roy was born to Lisandro Sr. and Rita Rivera of Sile, New Mexico on April 14, 1933, on Good Friday. Roy left behind his loving wife of 68 years, Katie Rivera; his son Deacon Roy Ángel Rivera (wife Frances); his two granddaughters Sharayah Rivera and Rachael Rivera who were his pride and joy; and two brothers, Lisandro Rivera Jr. (Josephine) and Bernie Rivera (Melba); and two sisters, Marianita Arthur (Mike) and Virginia Ortiz (David) and many nephews and nieces.

Roy served his country in the Army. Roy received his bachelor’s degree in science propelling him as an educator for 29 years, teaching high school in Bernalillo for nine years (Biology, Chemistry), West Mesa high school for nine years (Algebra and Geometry) and finishing out his career by opening Cibola high school. He taught math and then received his master’s degree in media, serving at the school as the Media Specialist. He also taught at TVI, was a member of NEA and worked with the teacher’s Professional, Rights, and Responsibilities organization. For a few years he coordinated the summer Youth Employment Program for the City of Albuquerque. His educational expertise took him to Bolivia one summer working with the Teacher Corps Program.

After retiring Roy dedicated his time to his Farm. He was very proud of his garden and the grapes that he grew to make wine. Roy had many friends and would invite them to the farm, giving them fresh vegetables and wine when they left. 

Roy was involved at Queen of Heaven Catholic Church serving as sacristan, lector, and Eucharistic Minister. He served on the Pastoral Council, taught baptism classes and was a Guadalupano. The ministry he was most fervent about was visiting the sick and taking them Holy Communion. He did this for many years. 

Roy and Katie loved to travel taking them to many places, like Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, Israel, Tangiers, and Yugoslavia.

Greeting Roy in Heaven are his parents Lisandro Sr. and Rita Rivera; brothers Escolastico, Maurilio, Joe, James and Fred Rivera; and sisters Edelmira Rivera and Clovia Segura; and niece Monica Romero; nephews, Elias Rivera, Phillip Rivera, Anthony Romero, and Gilbert Lee Romero. 

Viewing for Mr. Rivera will begin at 6:00pm at Daniels Funeral Home located at 3113 Carlisle Blvd NE, ABQ, NM 87110 on Wednesday September 11, 2024, followed by the vigil service at 6:30pm. Mass of Christian burial will be held at Queen of Heaven Catholic Church located at 5300 Phoenix Ave NE on Thursday September 12, 2024 at 10:00am with interment to follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. A reception will be held after the interment at Queen of Heaven Catholic Church for a time of fellowship with the family.