Ernest "Dale" Rivers

Ernest L. Rivers, better known as Dale, son of Earnest C. and Helen Rivers (both deceased), was a life-long resident of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, went to his Heavenly home on Friday, January 15, 2021. He is survived by his wife, Pamela and children, Jonathan, Kimberly and Brian Rivers; 7 grandchildren; his brother, David; and sister, Dona Langlinais.
Known as “Mr. St. Martin,” Dale attended St. Martin schools from 1953-1965. After graduation from Trevecca Nazarene College in 1969, he returned in service to St. Martin High as a math teacher in 1969. Rising through the ranks, Dale held the positions of principal to St. Martin Junior High and then moved on to the newly built St. Martin High School in 1983. Dale concluded his tenure with the Jackson County School District in 2000 after serving 17 years as the Assistant Superintendent of Education of Jackson County.
Dale often commented to those around him, “to make a difference in life, you must be a person of love, integrity, finish what you start, and be a person of faith.” He lived the example of service to others both in his professional life and in his spiritual life holding multiple positions within each church he attended. His final church home, the Gulf Coast Family Church of the Nazarene held a special place in his heart, as his uncle, Roy Entrekin and father, Earnest Rivers were founding members.
Most of all, Dale will be missed for his gregarious laugh and unflappable demeanor. He was the calm, the quiet dignified strength, and the heart of his friends and family.
Visitation will be held Monday, January 25th from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m., and a Funeral Service from 11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. at Gulf Coast Family Church of the Nazarene, 14700 Big Ridge Road, Biloxi. He will be laid to rest at the Crestlawn Memorial Park on Highway 90 in Ocean Springs. In lieu of florals, the family requests donations to his church’s mission funds. For more information on the service or donations, please contact RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 13872 Lemoyne Blvd., West Jackson County ( 228-215-8700 ). The online guestbook may be viewed, and memories shared at www.riemannfamily.com