Jesus (Jesse) M. Rivera , age 75 of Brownsville, Vt. beloved husband of the late Patricia Rivera, passed away suddenly at home Saturday, August 21, 2021. He was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico to the late Luis A. Rivera Sr. and Raquel Zapata Rivera on May 31, 1946 and grew up in Fairfield, Ct. He graduated from Andrew Warde High School in 1966 and went on to serve his country in the U.S. Army as a Corporal in the Airborne Infantry during the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Star and Air Medal.

After his discharge from the Army, Jesse became a Police Officer with the Town of Fairfield, Ct. for 25 years, until his retirement in 1997. He was the first Hispanic officer and PBA president.  Toward the end of his career he was part of the Fairfield Marine Police.

In July of 1972, Jesse married the love of his life, Patricia and remained devoted to his wife of 36 years until her passing in 2008. They both loved traveling and spending lots of time with their family.  He remained a resident of Brownsville Vt. and was very active in the community.  Jesse volunteered at Mt Ascutney Hospital and was an active member of the American Legion in Windsor, Vt. Jesse made friends everywhere he went. He was always kind and willing to lend a helping hand.  He was very much loved by his friends and family.

Jesse is predeceased by his wife, Patricia, his father, Luis Rivera and son, Paul A. Murphy.  He is survived by his mother, Raquel Rivera, a brother, Luis (Tito) and his wife Cynthia of Bridgeport, Ct., two daughters Alexandra Lepore and her husband Christopher of Trumbull, Ct. and Sheelah Buedinger and her husband William of Vernon, Vt. He also leaves behind 5 grandchildren Meghan and Collin Lepore and Alexander, Hanna and Abigale Buedinger.

Burial will be private , but a celebration of life will be held on September 17th at 12:00pm at the American Legion (face masks required) at 197 Reef Rd. in Fairfield , Ct. Also on September 24th at 12:30 at the American Legion at 4 Court St. in Windsor , Vt.  In lieu of flowers please make donations to : American Legion Post 25 at 4 Court St. Windsor, VT. 05089

An online guest book can be found at cabotfh.com