William Jonathon Rivera | Eastern NC Now

    William Jonathon Rivera, 19, died Thursday, October 31, 2013.

    The family will receive friends at Wilkerson Funeral Home in Vanceboro on Saturday, November 9, 2013 from 1 to 5 p.m.

    William was the Beloved Son of Suzanne & Roberto Rivera, the Beloved Brother to Brenton, Ryan, Tyson, Tristan and Adrian; Beloved Nephew of Angela & Jim Gass and Lenny Durio; Beloved Grandson of Joan Ryan and Christine & Jerry Levine; Beloved Cousin of Riley, Emily, Megan and Victoria; and Beloved of many.

    William was a shining example of what is good in the world; a quick smile, the truth when needed, a hug, first to volunteer, last to leave, a giver, someone who truly cared about others, saw the best, quick to forgive, made the most of a situation and above all else had knowledge well beyond his years. He loved his family, his dog Lilac, his Volvo's and truly enjoyed welding. He lived life to its fullest, even on his motorcycle; he loved a good concert or just quality time with a friend, or family member. William enjoyed his books on tape and a good movie, "A Knight's Tale" being his favorite.

    William graduated West Craven HS this 2013, where he was a member of the FFA, played football for three years and chose college for his fourth year to start his passion for welding. He was taking several college courses at Craven Community College, where he was presently enrolled full time wrestling with 17 credits. On this journey of his life he was influenced by many of you.

    William also graduated Washington Montessori Charter in Washington, NC. He was there just 3 years, but they touched his life so profoundly that he went back every chance he could to see them and volunteer. He loved you all very much and you helped mold him with the love you shared with him. Thank you.

    William touched many people in his short life. He could make you crazy with his "I got this" and then warm inside with his smiles, hugs, and just being there. Please remember him by passing that on. Give someone special to you a hug; tell someone you haven't told in a while that you love them, that you care... Most important be true to yourself and take a moment to be yourself. "Practice Truth Fear Nothing" was a shirt you would see William wearing most often and he lived his life by those very words. You are missed beyond words.

    Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made to a NO KILL Animal Rescue of your choice. Online condolences at www.wilkersonfuneralhome.com.