Carmen "Petra" Rivera

LOWELL - Beloved mother, grandmother, aunt and friend, Carmen P. Rivera, 82, a long time resident of Lowell, MA., passed away peacefully surrounded by loving family and friends.

Born on March 01, 1943 in Comerio, Puerto Rico the eldest daughter of the late Pedro Cruz and Maria Cruz Rivera.

After the passing of her father Carmen was taken out of school by the fourth grade. Carmen cared for her youngest siblings while her mother worked. She came to Lowell, MA in the late 1960's. Carmen worked in the Lowell factories when she first moved to Lowell. She worked for Carol Shoe Co. for many years in the 1970's and when that company closed she continued to work for other companies in the Lowell area and eventually ran a small daycare out of her home. Her love of education was very limited and despite not having much of an education, Carmen self-taught herself many things such as reading and basic math. Carmen was always known to be a hard worker and as a single mother of three supported her family in the best way that she could.

And although, she did not have a fancy degree her biggest title which she wore very well was that of a "Caregiver." Carmen opened her door to families in need and prided herself by giving to others.

Carmen was an active member of the Lowell Spanish Congregation of Jehovahs Witness for over 50 years. Her love for God and the brothers and sisters of the congregation was enormous. Amongst other things Carmen enjoyed cooking and was known to make the best Spanish coffee. She also enjoyed shopping, going for nature walks and bible studies.

Carmen was the sister of Luz N. Rivera, Orlando, Fl., Enrique Cruz, Tampa, Fl., Nilsa I. Rivera, Lowell, Ma., and the late Hector L. Cruz & Pedro L. Cruz.

Carmen is the loving mother of 3 children. The eldest son Jose Rivera and his wife Nilda Rivera of Nashua, NH. Carmen M. Sherman and husband Thomas A. Sherman of Chelmsford, MA and Danny Rivera of Lowell, MA.

She is also survived by her grandchildren: Isaiah Rivera and wife Amy Rivera, Caleb Rivera and wife Ximena Rivera, Aidan and Connor Sherman, Joel Rivera. Great grandchildren Gemini and Julian Rivera. Her pride and joy were always her grandchildren. Many nieces and nephews.

Carmen P. Rivera will be greatly missed by her children, family and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to Carmen’s Life Celebration on Monday from 5 until 6:45 PM at the McKENNA-OUELLETTE FUNERAL HOME, 327 Hildreth Street. Prayers will immediately follow at 6:45 PM. Burial will be Private.