Christine Reyes Rivera

Christine (Reyes) Rivera, known by many as Hummingbird, 63, of Auburn, a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away surrounded by loved ones, Wednesday, October 11th, 2023, after a valiant battle with cancer.  Christine is welcomed in heaven into the arms of her son, Alexio, father, Hector Emilio, and sister, Marlyn.

Born in Worcester, Christine was the daughter of Lydia (Zayas) Reyes and the late Hector Emilio Reyes who both left lasting imprints on the Latino community in Worcester. Raised here Christine graduated from Worcester State University with a bachelor’s degree in science. Following in the footsteps of her parents, she spent her life helping the community from all walks of life. Christine devoted herself to advocating for minorities, teen moms, and the disabled; first with Access Futures, then Worcester Family Health centers, and lastly where she’d dedicate 18 years of her life as care coordinator for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Health and Human Services. 

Christine is survived by the “love of her life” Amador Rivera, a retired Worcester Firefighter, whom she was happily married to for 41 years. She also left behind her two daughters, Serena L. Rivera, Emelyn C. Rivera, son-in-law Alex Berner and daughter-in-law Bethany Grantham whom she loved dearly; three grandchildren she adored, Ariella, Alesandro, and Rylan; her mother, Lydia E. (Zayas) Reyes; her sister Lydia L. Reyes and her daughter Jaelyn, and sister Guanina Reyes and her sons Anthony and Shawn Jr.; nephew Hector Jr.; Cousin Ana Villegas; and many extended family, friends, and patrons of St. Peter's Church.

Chris loved to dance with Amador and listen to the music he played for her. Her favorite pastime was spending time with those she loved in front of bonfires creating memories while sharing laughs and stories, games nights with her daughters and grandkids, and watching sunsets wherever she traveled. 

In line with Christine’s wishes, there will be no funeral or wake. Instead visit the page; https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552172678109 Christine Rivera Memorial page where we welcome all those who have been touched by her kindness and love to share pictures, stories, and anything else to keep her memory alive. A P.O.Box will be listed on her page for any cards and mementos sent.  The MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St is honored to serve the family once more.