Maria J. Rivera

Maria Josefa Rivera Diaz

September 7, 1934 – May 27, 2025

With hearts full of love and gratitude, we announce the passing of Maria J. Rivera, 90, of Bridgeport, Connecticut, who entered into eternal rest on May 27, 2025.

Born in Naranjito, Puerto Rico on September 7, 1934, she was lovingly known as "Pepa".  Maria was the beloved daughter of Jose R. Diaz and Manuela Rivera. She was the devoted wife of the late Faustino Rivera, and after his passing in 1983, she embraced the roles of both mother and father, ensuring her children were always cared for, never lacking in love or support.

Maria worked as a cigar maker and scissor maker in Bridgeport and was known not just for her hard work, but for the joy and kindness she brought to those around her. She was a woman of deep faith and a cherished member of Iglesia Pentecostal Peña de Horeb on Park Street in Bridgeport, where she was lovingly called "Finin".  She worshiped there for many decades. If you ever wondered where she was, the answer was always simple—she was in church, lifting her heart in devotion to the Lord she loved with her entire being.

She is survived by her loving children: Robert Rivera (Theresa), Josephine Rivera, and Judy Nieves (Bernard); her loving grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren, nephews and nieces who carry forward her legacy of faith and family. Maria was the last surviving sibling among ten, a remarkable lineage of which she was deeply proud.

Maria was the embodiment of humility, compassion, and generosity. She gave freely to anyone in need, not out of abundance, but from a heart that overflowed with love. Her kitchen was a place of comfort and connection—where her sofrito, arroz con pollo, salchichón soup, and sancocho were shared with joy and affection. She found her greatest happiness surrounded by family, pouring love into every dish and every embrace.

Viewing will take place on Sunday, June 1, 2025 beginning at 11:00 AM at the Iglesia Pentecostal Peña de Horeb, 536 Park Street, Bridgeport, CT until the End of the Service.  

Friends who would like to be present for burial may gather in the Funeraria Luz de Paz (Parking Lot), 426 E. Washington Avenue, Bridgeport, CT on Monday, June 2, 2025 at 10:00 AM with a departure for burial in the St. Michael's Cemetery, Stratford, CT at 10:15 AM. 

She now reunites with her beloved husband, her parents, her siblings and her dear daughter Shirley Rivera, all of whom preceded her in passing.