Deacon Ray Rivera

Deacon Ray Rivera died Saturday, November 7, 2020.

Deacon Ray was ordained for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles in 1982, and served faithfully until his retirement in 2016. He grew up in Canoga Park, attending Canoga Park High School, where he lettered in baseball and basketball, and played tuba and trombone in the school’s marching band. After high school, Ray had a 42-year career as a technician for the SoCal Gas Company.

In his late 40s, Ray received his first communion. He was "lit on fire" for the Lord, and joined the Valley Latin Knights, spending the rest of his life serving the poor and working for underserved communities throughout the San Fernando Valley.

Ray was ordained a deacon at age 51, and was assigned to St. Brigid of Sweden Church, where he ministered to the Hispanic community tirelessly for 34 years.

Deacon Ray is survived by his wife, Josie, their 5 children, 15 grandchildren, and 16 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his older brother, William.