Jimmy Rivas

Jimmy Rivas, a disabled U.S. Air Force veteran, rallied for the last time at his home in Orange Park last week, joking with his wife, sons, daughter, seven grandchildren and other relatives the day before he died. His heart gave out Wednesday morning, October 13, 2010. He was 80.

After his retirement from the Air Force as a master sergeant, Mr. Rivas spent the rest of his career in the air conditioning and construction trades. He spent his spare time working to improve the lives of his wife and children.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, the former Delores Appleby of Chipley, Florida; his children, Richard Rivas of Jacksonville, Ronald Rivas of Jacksonville, Robert Rivas of Tallahassee, Karen Rivas Ngo of Orange Park, and Randall Rivas of Jacksonville; and his grandchildren, Janis Rivas, James Rivas, Aaron Rivas, Cecilia Rivas, Alex Rivas, Kelly Ngo and Allen Ngo.

Cremation arrangements by A Dignified Alternative-Hatcher Cremations (904) 260-2522