Clarita

Rivera

Clarita Rivera was born in Sagua La Grande, Cuba, on March 9, 1938, Clarita Rivera passed away peacefully on November 12, 2026, in Maywood, Illinois, at the age of 88.

Clarita’s life was defined by courage, perseverance, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to family and community. Shortly after Fidel Castro came to power in Cuba, Clarita made the courageous decision to leave her homeland in search of freedom and a better future. Along with 14 others, the United States Coast Guard detained Clarita in Florida Keys for three days. With the assistance of Catholic Charities, she eventually made her way to Chicago, where she began a new chapter of her life, determined to build a future through hard work, education, and opportunity.

It was in Chicago that she met the love of her life, Angel, and together they built a beautiful family. A devoted wife and loving mother, Clarita always placed her family at the center of her world. Yet, her dedication to others extended well beyond her home. Determined to further her education and make a difference in the lives of children, she continued her studies and earned a Master’s Degree in Education. She went on to enjoy a distinguished career with the Chicago Public Schools as a Special Education Teacher, ultimately retiring from Roberto Clemente Community Academy. Throughout her career, Clarita touched countless lives through her compassion, patience, and belief in the potential of every student.

Her contributions to education and her community were recognized with the prestigious Lincoln Academy Medal of Illinois, an honor reflecting her dedication and service. She was also a committed member of the Wicker Park Lions Club and generously contributed her time and efforts to helping others.

From leaving everything familiar behind in Cuba to becoming a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, educator, and community leader, Clarita lived a life that inspired those fortunate enough to know her. Her journey was a testament to the opportunities made possible through courage, determination, and faith in a brighter tomorrow.

She will be remembered for her strength, generous heart, devotion to her family, and the countless lives she touched along the way. Her legacy lives on through the family she cherished, the students she inspired, and the community she served. She was deeply loved and will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Beloved wife of the late Angel, Sr.; cherished mother of Angel Jr. (Irma) Rivera, Ana Barbie Rivera, Marlene Herrera, Evelyn Rivera and the late Monique Mollinedo; loving grandmother of Amber (Jose), Angel III, Athena, and Carla; proud great-grandmother; dear sister and aunt of many.

Visitation, Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 4:30 to 8:00 p.m.; Funeral Prayers, Sunday, November 15, 2026, 2:15 p.m. at The Elms Funeral Home 7600 W. Grand Ave. (turn north at 76th Ave.), Elmwood Park to St. Celestine Catholic Church, Mass 3:00 p.m. Interment Private. For information 708-453-1234 or www.elmsfh.com