Tony Manuel Rivera

In Loving Memory of Tony Manuel Rivera

Tony Manuel Rivera passed away peacefully on June 24, 2026, in Corona, California.

Tony was born on June 13, 1931, in Socorro, New Mexico, to Isabel Baca Rivera and Manuel Rivera. He was the eldest of six children and grew up alongside his siblings, Sam, Jennie, Pauline, Josie and Merlinda.

In September 1951, Tony married, Eloisa Gomez. Together they built a loving family and shared 59 wonderful years of marriage. They were blessed with four children: Edwina, who passed away at nine months of age; Mark (Julie); Edwina (Tom); and Phil (Ann).

Tony proudly served in the United States Army and was stationed at Fort Richardson, Alaska. He received an honorable discharge in 1953.

Tony moved his family to California, eventually settling in Downey, where, at the age of 30, he fulfilled his dream of opening his own barber shop. He proudly served his community as a barber for 29 years before retiring.

After retirement, Tony and Eloisa made their home in Lakewood, where he faithfully served as an usher at St. Cyprian Catholic Church. Their family continued to grow with the arrival of five cherished grandchildren: Dominic (Carolyn), Ryan, Andrea (Patrick), Rodney, and Kristen (Justin). Tony was also blessed with four great-grandchildren: Dominic, Adelyn, Lorenzo, and Arden.

Following Eloisa's passing after 59 years of marriage, Tony moved to Avista in Corona, where he enjoyed spending more time with his family and became an active member of the community choir. Singing and playing the guitar became one of his greatest passions, bringing him joy and allowing him to share his love of music with those around him.

Tony will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his strong work ethic, his deep faith, and the kindness and warmth he shared with everyone he met. His legacy lives on through his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and the many lives he touched throughout his 95 years.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love.