Petra M. Rivera

Latham - It is with deep sorrow to announce that Petra M. Rivera, 84, peacefully entered into our Heavenly Father’s kingdom on Friday, September 7, 2018, at home surrounded by her loving family.

Born September 12, 1933, in Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, to the late Jose Alberto Cortes and Crucita Sepulveda. She was also predeceased by her sisters Rosa Rodriquez, Carmen Ortiz, Juana Ortiz, Blanca Sepulveda and brother Cruz Ortiz, and in October 2017, her ex-husband and father of her children, who she loved and befriended, Carmelo Rivera.

Petra migrated to NYC in 1950 because of economic reasons. She worked at Broadway Pens Company in Brooklyn along with her brother and his wife. After three years, they pooled their money together to get the rest of their relatives from Puerto Rico over to the states. She met her future husband at the same place of employment, married in 1959 and later had 4 children (one died from SIDS).

Petra was known for her ease in frequent conversations with even total strangers, maintained a sweet and simple demeanor that won the trust and hearts of many, who even now are being changed by her witness of constant nurturing love and faith. Her signature gift of joy, shown through her constant smiling, laughter, and joking around which will never be forgotten. She took pride in being a wonderful and loving homemaker and mother. She was the matriarch of the family and great advisor to all. After all her children were in school, she obtained her GED and training certificate as a Medical Assistant. She worked in several medical clinics eventually ending at Kateri Residence Home in NYC for 25 years. Her love to serve others above self was eminent in how she cared for the elderly, family and friends. She was an active 1199 union member. Petra loved the Lord and was strong in her Catholic faith.

After retirement 16 years ago, Petra lived in Albany county to be close to her children and grandchildren. She is survived by her daughters Nancy (David) Hernandez, Betsy Rivera and son, David (Sheila) Rivera, her grandchildren Jasmine (Malachi) Wiggs, Julio (Erica) Feliciano, Jr, Jonathan (Chelsea) Hernandez, Jason Feliciano, Juliana (Michael) Commisso, Amanda Searles, Justin (Samantha) Feliciano, Daniel Hernandez, Jordan Carroll, Gabriella Hernandez, Christopher Rivera, and Gabriel Rivera; and six great grandchildren, Jovani Wiggs, Jaiden Feliciano, Rylend Rivera, Luca Commisso, Jonathan L. Hernandez and Leo Commisso.

The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support. We especially are appreciative and grateful to staff members of St Peter’s Hospital Cardiology Unit and the Community Hospice especially Kellie, Paula, Heather and Jeff, whom brought great comfort and support to the family.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Petra’s family on Tuesday from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave. Colonie. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St Pius X Church, Crumitie Rd, Loudonville on Wednesday 9:30 am. Burial will follow at Albany Rural Cemetery in Menands. Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, NENY Chapter, 4 Pine West Plaza, Albany, NY 12205. To leave a message of condolence for the family or to order flowers, visit www. Cannon Funeral.com

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.