Joe Louis Rivers

Joe Louis Rivers, 88, of Newburgh, New York, passed away peacefully in the early morning of August 26, 2025, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Suffern, New York.

Joe was born on March 18, 1937, in Ridgeville, South Carolina, to the late Daniel Blige Rivers and Queenie Victoria Gourdine Rivers, and was the third oldest of nine siblings.

In 1950, Joe moved to New York City with his parents and siblings. The family first lived together in a one-room apartment on 126th Street and 7th Avenue in Harlem before eventually moving to a larger home on 122nd Street.

Joe was educated in the New York City public school system and spent his formative years learning and growing up in Harlem.

In 1973, Joe married the late Ida Mae Jenkins, his beloved wife of 36 years. Together, they raised three children, Vanessa, Johnny, and Melissa, in the Bronx, where they built a loving and lively household that became the foundation of countless cherished memories. Each of their children brought joy and fulfillment to their lives. To one daughter, he was “Pop,” to the other, he was “Daddy,” a reflection of the special and unique bond he shared with each of them.

Joe’s strong work ethic and commitment were evident throughout his years of service with Bell Atlantic, Amtrak, and Carlyle Record Warehouses Corporation. After retiring in 1998, he embraced what he considered his most meaningful role, spending his days with Ida, helping to babysit his grandson, Daniel, a responsibility he treasured deeply. He adored Daniel and was immensely proud of all his accomplishments, always front and center at every event to cheer him on. In 1999, he and Ida purchased a home in Newburgh, New York, where they built a warm and welcoming space and spent their remaining years surrounded by loved ones.

Joe was also one half of the R&B Doo Wop duo Johnnie & Joe, best known for their 1957 hit “Over the Mountain, Across the Sea.” Over the Mountain became their signature song, remaining a beloved classic featured in film and television for decades. After Johnnie’s passing in 1988, Joe continued performing, singing alongside other female vocalists who stepped in to carry on the Johnnie & Joe legacy.

A highlight of Joe’s career came on March 11, 2012, when Johnnie & Joe were inducted into the Doo Wop Hall of Fame of America. Joe continued performing professionally until 2023, bringing joy to audiences nationwide with his voice and his love of music.

Beyond his music and work, Joe was also a dedicated Knicks and Yankees fan. He also loved watching old westerns – “cowboys,” as he called them and over the years, he built an impressive collection of cowboy boots, hats, and buckles that became a signature part of his style. Joe was also a proud grandpa to Coco, the family dog, a role he happily claimed for 15 years, as he was undoubtedly her favorite human. She will miss the comfort of his lap, their naps together, giving him endless kisses and licks each day, and receiving the countless treats and love he showered on her.

In his later years, Joe shared a close companionship with Maria Golden, whose presence brought comfort and joy.

Joe’s faith guided him throughout his life. For over 30 years, he was a member of Christian Parish for Spiritual Renewal in Harlem, the neighborhood where he grew up.

Anyone who knew Joe knew he could be a little stubborn at times, but they also knew he was determined and a fighter. When his medical team thought his time was near, he adapted and kept on pushing forward, blessing us with three and a half more months of precious memories. He fought until the very end, with an unyielding will to live.

Joe was a devoted father and beloved grandfather. Joe leaves to cherish his memory his daughters, Vanessa Rivers Smallwood and Melissa Rivers; his son-in-law, Ronald Smallwood; his grandson, Daniel Wallace; his beloved sister, Iola Leaf, his only remaining sibling, with whom he shared a lifelong, special bond; his sisters-in-law, Lucille Reasoner and Dorothy Peterson; his brother-in-law, Richard Reasoner; his companion Maria Golden and her family; and longtime family friends, Cynthia Sanders and Leon Drummond, who were like a daughter and son to him. He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, his goddaughter, and neighbors who became like family, all of whom held a special place in his heart.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel Blige and Queenie Victoria; his dear wife, Ida; his son, Johnny; his siblings, Edward, Dorothy Mae, Johnnie, Larry, Danny, Patricia Ann, James, and Mary; and his brother-in-law, Elliot Leaf.

Joe will be remembered for his devotion to family, his determination, his music, his faith, and his unwavering spirit. He was always ready to lend a helping hand and was willing to give his last to those in need. Many have remarked on the meaningful conversations they shared with him and the advice and wisdom he offered so freely. Standing tall at 6’4, with an impeccable sense of style that was as much a part of his presence as his voice and his smile, Joe left a lasting impression wherever he went. His legacy of love, strength, and resilience will continue to inspire those who were blessed to know him.