Brian Rivard

Brian Rivard

January 3, 1953 - September 4, 2025

Brian Rivard, the most stubborn soul ever, departed this earth on September 4, 2025 at the age of 72. Born on January 3, 1953 in St. Louis, Missouri, he was the youngest of 4 sons to the late Wilfred H. and Juanita F. Rivard.

Brian graduated from Hazelwood High School before joining the United States Navy in 1971. He was most proud of having served his country, including time during the Vietnam War and Desert Storm. His military accolades are too numerous to list, but do include a USCG Special Ops Ribbon, 4 Vietnam Service Medals, an RVN Campaign Medal, 3 Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and 5 Good Conduct Medals. He served in the Navy for 20+ years, attaining the rank of TM1, before his retirement in 1997.

After retirement from the Navy, Brian built many homes in the Hampton Roads area while working in construction. He also became an avid karaoke DJ under the name Ghostrider. If something was broken, you could count on him to fix just about anything whether it was a sewer pipe, a vacuum, a car, etc. He also loved to be outdoors: fishing, camping, and especially riding his bike. Many years later after being unsettled & moving around frequently, his final time was spent in Yanceyville, North Carolina.  

Brain was preceded in death by his parents, older brother, Jean A. Rivard, and numerous dachshund companions: Peanut, Oscar, Henry, and Rommel. He is survived by daughters Jennifer Smith (Jason) and Laura Thompson (Justin) both of Virginia Beach; grandchildren, Adriana, Isaiah, Abby, Benny, Violet, and Naomi; the mother of his children, Debra Rivard; brothers Pete (Bonnie) Rivard and Dana (Sue) Rivard; many nieces and nephews all over the country; and his very long time, Navy friend Tom Pondolfino, who always called him Bubba Ray.

The family would like to express sincere gratitude to the staff at the Yanceyville Rehab Center, especially Gary, Tina, and Beverly, for their compassionate care even on the very tough days. A special thank you to Charles & Scott from Authora Care Hospice for their frequent visits & updates during his final weeks. Also, the Durham VA for their tireless efforts in managing his care.

The family will receive friends at Avalon Church of Christ on Monday, September 15th from 3-5 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Brian may be sent to Camp Rudolph at www.camprudolph.org. 

Dad, we hope you made it to the big fantail in the sky

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