James “Jimmy” P. Rivers

1985 – 2026

James P. Rivers, 40, of Rome, passed away peacefully at home on Monday January 05, 2026. He was born in Rome, N.Y. on January 08, 1985, the first son of James and Patricia Rooney Rivers. He attended Rome schools, graduating from Rome Free Academy in 2003. Jimmy later attended MVCC and was a trained phlebotomist. He was currently employed at Sheridan (formerly Vick’s, Alfred’s) as a warehouse specialist. Jimmy was previously employed at Family Dollar Distribution Center, Fiber Instrument Sales, and Rome Ford.

Jimmy was an avid sports fan, especially of the Denver Broncos, Syracuse University Basketball, and the New York Yankees. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and Sudoku. Jimmy was of the Catholic faith and attended St. John the Baptist Church.

Surviving are his mother, Patricia, his brother Nicholas (Valerie) Rivers, his nephews, Morgan and Daniel, and niece, Lauren, all of Rome. He also leaves behind his aunts and uncles, Kathlyn Rooney, of Ballston Spa, Madeline Rooney (Doug Bishop), of Saratoga Springs, Maureen Rooney (Joe Curatolo), of Malta, N.Y., William Rivers, of Texas, as well as his cousins, Alexander Waite, of Ballston Spa, Gregory Waite, of Watertown, Thomas Bishop, of New York City, and David Dial and Kimberly Hurd, of California. Jimmy was predeceased by his father, James C. Rivers, his brother, John Todd, grandparents, Raymond and Joan Rivers, and Francis and Violet Rooney, aunts, Eileen Rooney and Cindy Dial, and uncle, Ray Rivers. He was also predeceased by his cousin, Christopher Waite.

Jimmy will be remembered as a kindhearted soul and a friend to everyone. He would go out of his way to help anyone in need. With his quick wit and humor, he was always a lot of fun to be around.

Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. Burial will be in Rome Cemetery in the spring.

Jimmy had a great love for all animals, especially his dogs, Tut and Cleo. Memorial contributions in Jimmy’s name may be made to the Humane Society of Rome, Inc., PO Box 4572, Rome, NY  13442-4572.

Arrangements are by the Nicholas J. Bush Funeral Home, Inc., 7751 Merrick Rd. Rome, N.Y. 13440.

Jimmy was a caring and loving son, brother, uncle, nephew, and friend. Please remember him in your prayers.

To offer online condolences, please visit www.njbushfuneralhome.com.