Orlando Rivera

Orlando passed away on August 3, 2025 after a lengthy illness. Orlando was born on October 20th, 1939 to Pablito and Josefina Rivera.

He is preceded in death by his son Manuel Rivera, daughter Esther Rivera; granddaughter Marissa Valdez; parents Pablo and Josefina Rivera; in-laws Clemente and Encarnacion (Chona) Martinez; siblings Alejandro Rivera, Jose Rivera, Manuel Rivera, Eulogia Martinez (Enrique), Loyola Mares (Alfonso) and Robert Williams, whom he considered as a brother.

Orlando is survived by his wife of 63 years Josephine Rivera; children Joseph Rivera, Arthur Rivera (Bridgette), Yolanda Valerio (Manuel), Benjamin Rivera (Laurie) and nephews Steve Rivera (Vangie) and Ray Rivera, whom he considered as his children; 5 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; in-laws Connie Rivera, Roberto Garcia (Carmen), Ruth Greenbaum (Richard) and Comadre Julia Williams.

A special thank you is sent to Delfina Delozier the eucharist minister and Father Ryan from St. Francis church. As well as the hospice team from Red Willow, who made sure Orlando was as comfortable as possible, and to the DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos staff, that helped with funeral arrangements.

Serving the family as pallbearers will be, Anthony (AJ) Valdez, George Trujillo, Joey Fernandez, Leroy Mares, Paul Martinez, and Robert (Tony) Marrufo. 

Rosary will be recited on Monday, August 11, 2025 at 6pm. Mass of Christian burial will be on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at 10:00am, both held at San Francisco de Asís Catholic church. Burial will follow at Nuestra Señora de Dolores Cemetery in Cañon.

The family of Orlando Rivera has entrusted the care of their loved one to the caring staff of DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos. 866-657-4019 www.devargastaos.com