Janie Mae Rivers

Mrs. Janie Mae rivers began her earthly journey in life on January 13, 1947 in Holt, Alabama, the daughter of Eddie and Corine (Payne) Long. While surrounded by her loving family, she peacefully gained her eternal wings and entered the kingdom of Heaven on Tuesday, August 29, 2017 at the age of 70 years.

Janie relocated to Saginaw, Michigan at the age of 12 years where she resided with her eldest brother and his family. She was a 1965 graduate of Buena Vista High School where she was one of the first black varsity cheerleaders. Following graduation, she attended Saginaw Business Institute and was employed by the Michigan Civil Rights Commission as an Administrative Assistant. After 10 years, Janie left the workforce to achieve her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Marketing from Saginaw Valley State University. She continued her career in business with positions at Delta College, Michigan National Bank, and H&R Block.

On August 19, 1967, she joined Randall Rivers in holy matrimony. Together they shared 50 years of wedded bliss. Janie was a member of Zion Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Rodrick Smith where she wore many hats. She was trustee, assistant teacher of the Skipworth/Murphy Circle, member and past president of the Chancellor Choir and Mass Choir. Janie was a “Shoe Diva” who enjoyed shopping and traveling. She especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, family and friends. Her infectious smile, beauty and grace will forever be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Janie leaves to celebrate her legacy, her loving and devoted husband, Randall Rivers; one daughter, Miranda (Dominic) Williams Craig of Atlanta, Georgia; one son, Eric Vance Rivers of Southgate, Michigan; two grandchildren, Camryn Clara Williams and Tony Bernard Williams “TJ”, both of Atlanta, Georgia; one sister, Cora Long Cotton; two brothers, Eddie Long, Jr. and John Long; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; four sisters-in-law, Carole Golston, Elvia Lee Mills, Alesia Richardson, and Joyce (Eddie) Jones; two brothers-in-law, William (Alma) Duke and Johnny (Phyllis) Sharper; many other relatives and friends including special friends, Connie Wingard, Shirley Sangster, Sara Walker, Julie McNair, Cazell Cooper, Lillian Thomas, and Sheila Gamble.

Janie was preceded in death by her parents, Eddie and Corine Long; one brother, Percy Long, Sr.; one sister, Catherine Callaway, mother and father-in-law, Mattie B. and Albert Orr; three brothers-in-law, Keith Richardson, Artis Golston, and Frank Mills; one sister-in-law, Jesse Long; several aunts and uncles.

The family wishes to express heartfelt thanks to Pastor Rodrick Smith and the Zion Missionary Baptist Church family, Ivan E. Phillips and the staff of Paradise Funeral Chapel, Shelva Veal and everyone who offered kind words, expressions of love and prayers.