Clara Rivera

Clara Rivera entered Heaven on Tuesday, July 19, 2011 from complications of lung disease. Born August 12, 1926 in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, to Carmello and Rafaella Rivera. She was one of 16 children.

Clara was a widow at an early age and never remarried but instead focused on being a mother. She was a strong and determined woman, a great mother and homemaker which served her well as she had to navigate many road blocks moved from Puerto Rico to New York, did not speak English, had no formal education.etc. during the toughest times of her life and the country's - late 1940's and early 50's. Her focus was her children and while times were tough, she devoted everything she had and did to ensure they got an education, met their needs and become great adults. She succeeded in that mission.

Clara came to San Antonio, TX in November 2006 where she lived with her daughter Rosa and her partner, Brenda, who were her primary care givers until her death. During these years Clara made many friends and became part of a large San Antonio 'family of friends.'

Survivors include her three children: Daughter, Rosa Iris Diaz and partner Brenda Hoster, San Antonio, TX; Son, Osmin Diaz and wife Alba Maldanado of Palm Coast, FL ; and son Ernesto Diaz and wife Carmen Diaz of Glendale, NY. She has five grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Clara also leaves behind her two year old Yorkie who she called her "Princessa" whose real name is Niki. How she loved that dog!

Clara loved to play dominos, watch "Keeping up Appearances" CDs and old Spanish movies and most of all she loved her dog, Niki. Clara also loved and embraced the simple things in life and anything she received brought her joy. She will be dearly missed by all.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make a memorial gift in her name to Meals on Wheels, at 4306 NW Loop 410, San Antonio, TX 78229; or the American Lung Association of Alamo and Southern Region at 8207 Callaghan Rd, San Antonio, TX 78230