Major David Rivera, United States Air Force (Retired)
A Life Anchored in Faith, Service, and Love
Major David Rivera, USAF (Ret.), a distinguished veteran, born on August 3, 1931, in Caguas, Puerto Rico, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2025, at the age of 93. His life was one of unwavering faith, dedicated service, and profound love for his family and community.
David was a proud member of the very first U.S. Air Force ROTC unit at the University of Puerto Rico, receiving his commission into the United States Air Force and earning a bachelor's degree in business administration. This marked the beginning of a remarkable career in the Air Force that took him across the globe, including Nebraska, Japan, New York, Ohio, Utah, California, and Florida. After 25 years of distinguished service, he retired in 1976, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and excellence.
Though accepted into medical school, life redirected him to Washington D.C., where he embraced a new challenge as a Certified Internal Auditor with the General Accounting Office. For two decades, he worked directly with the United States Congress on vital projects ranging from nuclear weapons programs to investigating the turret explosion on the battleship U.S.S. Iowa (BB-61). He was a man of extraordinary focus and dedication, always steady and committed to his work.
David’s life was deeply rooted in his faith. He loved God above all else and lived to share the truth of Jesus with others. His faith was rich, clear, and unwavering, making him a spiritual anchor to those who knew him. His wisdom, vision, and kindness left a lasting impact on countless lives. Even in his final years, he remained a pillar of strength and serenity, speaking often of Heaven and sharing his dreams with loved ones.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Asuncion Rivera, and their cherished children: David Rivera II and his wife, Rosana Emmanuelli, Wanda Negron and her husband, Victor R. Negron, Sandra Rivera, and Brenda Rivera. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Victor Negron, Nishira Stephenson, Jordy Albarran, David Stephenson, and Caroline “Kiki” Strissel, each carrying pieces of his love, laughter, and faith.
David’s Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, May 25th, at First Baptist Church of Longwood, located at 891 E State Rd 434, Longwood, FL 32750. The viewing will begin at 2 PM, followed by the service at 3 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause dear to David’s heart.
We will miss him deeply, yet we rejoice in the truth that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. As we remember David, we hold tightly to the echo of his life—a life that spoke of kindness, faith, and the beauty of a heart anchored in Heaven. He lived a long, beautiful life and departed this world as he lived—peacefully, full of grace, and surrounded by love.
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Previous Events
Visitation
25
May
891 E State Rd 434
Longwood, Fl 32750
Funeral
25
May
891 E State Rd 434
Longwood, Fl 32750
Cemetery Details
Location
6502 SW 102nd Avenue
Bushnell, FL 33513
