Verna Rivers

Twins, Verna Dean and Ernestine, were born to Ruby Rambo
(née Lister) on August 10, 1943 in Marshall, Texas. After
Ruby’s untimely death, the girls were legally adopted and
lovingly raised by cousins, Willie Mae and Levi Oliver.
Verna and Erna were proud graduates of Pemberton Junior
and Senior High Schools and made frequent trips back, over
the years, for reunions with their childhood friends.
At only 16 years of age, Verna moved to California. Nearly 10
years later, she married Johnny Lee Rivers on November 17,
1968 in Berkeley. Verna gave birth to their son, Johnny Jerome
on June 16, 1969, in Alameda. The family then moved to San
José where they bought a home and welcomed their daughter,
Jean Javette on March 1, 1973.
Verna worked as a finance clerk, at Sears, for over 30 years and
was a devoted member and Deacon of the Antioch Baptist
Church of San José for over 50.
Verna passed away on Friday, December 5, 2025. She leaves to
cherish her memory: her husband of 57 years, Johnny Lee
Rivers; son, Johnny Jerome Rivers, daughter, Jean Javette
Rivers (Kathleen) of Cotati, CA, grandchildren, Elaralani Noel,
Johnny Julian, and Miles Thomas Rivers of Cotati, CA, and
many dear extended family and friends.

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