Lawrence B. Rivers

Lawrence (Larry) B. Rivers, 81, passed away on Monday, August 18, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at Canton-Potsdam Hospital.

Born on December 28, 1943, to Bernard W. and Lena M. (Meacham) Rivers (both predeceased), Larry lived his entire life in St. Regis Falls, NY, and attended SRF Central High School.

Larry devoted his life to hard work and service. He was self-employed, owning and operating Rivers LP Gas for 17 years, where he also sold appliances, furniture, carpeting, and kitchens. He later owned the Riverside Restaurant for three years, operated Rivers Meat Market and Arcade, and, alongside his wife Jeane, ran Rivers Trailer Park until retiring 11 years ago.

Known as a hardworking, self-taught handy man, Larry was always willing to lend a helping hand. An avid woodsman and hunter, he proudly considered himself a "one shot" hunter and loved the outdoors. He was a dedicated member of the St. Regis Falls Fire Department for 62 years, serving as Rescue Chief, and also belonged to the SRF Sportsman's Club and East Brook Club.

On January 9, 1965, Larry married his beloved wife, Jeane (Patnode) Rivers, and together they shared 60 wonderful years. They were blessed with three children: a daughter, Melanie Rivers, who predeceased them at the early stages of her life and two sons, Lawrence B. Rivers Jr. (formerly married to Susan) and Chad E. (Jessica) Rivers.

Larry's grandchildren include Tyler (Amara) Rivers, Ashleigh Rivers and her partner Derek King, Abigail, Cora, and Bryson Rivers. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Hudson and Hadleigh Rivers. Larry is survived by his sister Doris (Joseph) Poquette and was predeceased by his sister Elaine (Edson) Lindsay.

He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Calling hours will be held Thursday, August 21, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Hammill Funeral Home in St. Regis Falls. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, August 22, with burial to follow at The Forrest Cemetery, and a luncheon at the SRF Adult Center. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to SRF Fire and Rescue or the SRF Adult Center.