John R. Rives

On Sunday afternoon, September 6, 2026, at 2:15 P.M., the Lord, in His infinite wisdom, called His son, John R. Rives, home to eternal rest. John peacefully transitioned from his earthly life at Bon Secours Southside Medical Center, surrounded by the love and comforting presence of his family, following a long and courageous battle with cancer.

John was born on December 20, 1966, in Petersburg, Virginia, to Mrs. Annie Johnson (Byron) and the late Mr. James Rives. He received his early education in the Petersburg Public Schools System, where he began developing the skills and talents that would serve him throughout his life.

John was a skilled and dedicated maintenance technician who took great pride in his work. He learned his trade while in school and continued to use those skills throughout his life.

At an early age, John accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and was baptized at his family’s home church, Sharon Baptist Church in North Dinwiddie, Virginia, under the pastoral leadership of Reverend Dr. Herbert W. Anderson.

In addition to his father, James Rives, John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Diane, and his brother, James Rives.

John leaves to cherish his loving memory to his daughter, Anne Moore; devoted mother, Annie Johnson (Byron); sister, Patrice Rives; and brother, Darryl Rives, all of Petersburg, Virginia. He also leaves a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving relatives, and friends who will forever cherish the memories they shared with him.

A memorial service will be held 4:00 P.M., Saturday, September 12, 2026, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Dr. Herbert W. Anderson, eulogist.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page or click here to view: https://vimeo.com/event/6177564?fl=so&fe=fs