Bernard Rivers

Obituary

Bernard William Rivers was born on December 14, 1945, in Manhattan, New York to the late Ruben and Marie Rivers. He was one of four children born to this union: one sister Ernestine, two brothers Ruben, Jr. and Frank all preceded him in death.

After a short illness on Tuesday, September 19, 2017, Bernard passed at the Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, New York.

Bernard attended the New York City Public School System and graduated from High School. He met and married the late Diane and from this union one son was conceived William Rivers, who is now deceased. Later on in his life he met Delores Booker and from this relationship one son was conceived Anthony Rivers.

Bernard was affectionately known as Billy. He enjoyed life, being happy and seeing other people happy. Bernard studied Karate under Master George Matthews and became a gifted karate expert. Billy became a Sensei teaching Karate in 1970 and was bestowed Grand Master Billy Rivers, 10th degree Hanshi in 2003.  He was loved by the community and respected by all who knew him. While he was under Grand Master Peter; Urban Founder of USA Dojo System and served China Town Dojo system, he also attended Bible School to grow and have a deeper relationship with his God.

He leaves to cherish his memory: one son Anthony (Tyris) Rivers of Columbus, Ohio, two grandchildren Amari and William R. Rivers, Jr. of the Bronx, New York, one stepson Edward R. Booker, III of Columbus, Ohio, one step daughter Desire Booker Barnes of the Bronx, New York, one godson Robert Mendoza, one step grand son, one step grand daughter, nieces, nephews, cousins, best friend Kevin Archibald, and a host of friends and students.

Sleep on Billy

We love you, but God loved you best

Submitted by your son

Anthony Rivers

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