Obituary

Edgardo Rivera Sr., lovingly known to all as Papi, passed away on December 8, 2025, in Camden, New Jersey, at the age of 58.

Edgardo was born on March 14, 1967, in Puerto Rico to his mother, Lydia. He spent his early years growing up in central New Jersey before settling in South Jersey, a place he proudly called home for more than 30 years.

A hardworking man, Edgardo was a handyman at heart and spent much of his life working in construction. He was known for his ability to fix just about anything, but more importantly, for his steady presence and willingness to help anyone who needed it.

Though single at the time of his passing, Edgardo experienced two great loves in his life, the mothers of his children, Daisy and Carmen—both of whom held a special place in his heart.

Edgardo was the proud father of ten children—five biological and five stepchildren—whom he loved and treated equally as his own: Anthony, Eddie, Edgardo Jr., Katie, Sammy, Carlos, Louie, Dayla, Angie, and Chad. He was also a devoted grandfather to more than 15 grandchildren, who were the light of his life and the recipients of his biggest smiles and strongest love.

Known simply for being—being there, being kind, being real—Edgardo was an all-around great guy. He was funny, warm-hearted, and loved deeply. While he was not a regular churchgoer, his faith was strong; he loved Jesus with all his heart and carried that love in the way he lived and treated others.

Edgardo Rivera Sr. will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy lives on through his children, grandchildren, and the many lives he touched just by being himself.