Jose Raul Rivera

Jose Raul Rivera was born on January 20, 1941, in Ponce, Puerto Rico, to Victoria and Raul Rivera. When he was six years old, he moved with his family to New York, where he spent much of his early life.

At the age of 30, Jose moved to Maryland, where he discovered what would become a lifelong calling caring for and nurturing children. For more than 40 years, he worked in childcare at Rosemount Daycare Center and Amazing Life Games Preschool. Throughout those years, Jose touched the lives of countless children and families with his kindness, creativity, humor, and gentle spirit.

Jose had a special gift for bringing joy to others. His paper airplanes, jumping origami frogs, and incredible stories born from his imagination became part of the lasting legacy he shared with generations of children. He was down-to-earth, warm, and accepting, and he had a way of making people feel welcomed and valued. Most importantly, Jose loved God and people. He introduced others to Jesus through the way he lived—accepting, encouraging, and bringing joy to those around him with his jokes.

Jose shared his life in Cottage City, Maryland, with his beloved wife, Anne, and their daughter, Shannon. He is also survived by his sister, Sylvia; his brother, T; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins in New York, as well as the many friends, children, and families whose lives were touched by knowing him.

A memorial service celebrating Jose’s life will be held on Friday, September 25, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Capital Christian Fellowship, 10411 Greenbelt Road, Lanham, Maryland 20706.