Justo Rivera

Justo Rivera, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on May 26, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, Justo led a life enriched by adventure, service, and the great outdoors. After a brief stint working at Owen Illinois Glass Company, Justo answered the call to serve his country, by enlisting in the US Navy. His service took him to remarkable places, including Hawaii, where he fell in love with nature, always recounting fond memories of Waikiki Beach and his experiences aboard a nuclear submarine. With a heart full of stories and a spirit bound to the open air, Justo’s post-military years were spent embracing every opportunity to experience the world outside. He was an avid gardener, a devoted camper who found peace in the desert’s solitude, and a passionate marathon runner. Justo lived over four decades in sunny California before moving to Georgia. There, amidst the warmth he so cherished, he transitioned from being a Dodgers fan to proudly supporting the Atlanta Braves while enjoying walks with his devoted dog, Leo. His love for sports extended to all corners of the TV screen, whether it was baseball, football, WNBA, horse racing, or NASCAR. Justo is preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Lucille Rivera, and his brothers, Victor and Steve Rivera. His legacy of love and laughter continues through his beloved daughter, Melissa Phillips, and his treasured granddaughters, Kaitlyn Murdock and Ava Grace Phillips. He is also survived by his brothers, Joe "Junior" Rivera, Dean (Patricia) Rivera, Henry (Kathy) Rivera, and David Rivera; several nieces and nephews, along with his faithful canine companion, Leo. His journey through life was one marked by devotion to family, country, and the beauty of the world around him. Justo's memory will forever inspire those who knew him to embrace life’s adventures and cherish the simple joys of nature. An inurnment will be held at Georgia National Cemetery with military honors on Friday, June 13, 2025 at 9:30 am. The family will hold a Celebration of Life on Saturday, June 14, 2025 from 1 o’clock until 3 o’clock at 310 Lexington Village, Peachtree City, GA 30269. If you plan on attending, please park at OneLife Fitness Center or behind Rock Salt Milk Bar. The family will also hold a Celebration of Life in California on Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at 1 o'clock at Rancho Vista Golf Club, 3905 Club Rancho Dr., Palmdale, CA 93551.

Justo Rivera

May 26, 1948 - June 9, 2025