Jo Ann Rivera

Jo Ann Rivera, 66, of Rockford, passed away May 19, 2022. Born on July 23, 1955 to Cecil and and Virginia Vowell. She spent nearly 40 years serving the Rockford community as a RN at OSF St. Anthony’s Hospital. She was one of 16 children in her family and was the first to graduate high school. She cared for her siblings growing up, and enjoyed spending her time caring for her children and grandchildren. She married the love of her life, Rich Rivera on October 25, 1985.

She is survived by her children; April (Jonathan) Bradley, Kesley (Patrick) Seidel, siblings; Michael, Patricia, Lynda, Jackie, Brenda, Robert, Cecil, William, Jessica, Harvey, Andrew, Jonathan, and Thressa, grandchildren; Caleb, Gabriel, Lily, Jacob, Avery, and Sierra as well as numerous extended family members and friends whom she loved dearly.

She is predeceased by her husband Richard Rivera, parents; Cecil and Virginia Vowell, and siblings; Timothy, and Kimberlee.

A memorial service will be Saturday, June 4 at 2pm at Sunset Funeral Home. Located at 8800 N. Alpine Rd. Machesney Park IL 61115. A visitation will take place at 1pm until the time of service.