Obituary of Porter Rivers, Jr.

Porter "Bruz" Rivers, Jr., a successful serial entrepreneur, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2023, at the age of 96. He leaves behind a legacy of service, hard work, joy for living, and dedication to his family and community. Bruz was born on May 18 (or 16, depending upon whether you believe his mother or the doctor), 1927, in Florence, South Carolina, to his loving parents, Porter Rivers, Sr., and Ruth Allen Rivers. Bruz pursued his education at Edmunds High School, where he graduated with the Class of '44. At the age of 19, he enlisted and served in the Navy at the end of World War II from 1944 to 1945. Following the war, he furthered his academic pursuits at the University of South Carolina, earning a Bachelor of Science in Accounting in 1951. His educational achievements served as a solid foundation for his future endeavors. As a graduate of USC, he was a life-long Gamecock fan. Growing up in the depression era, he learned how to work hard and enjoy life. From delivering the State newspaper in Sumter to working summers as a soda jerk at the Ocean Forest Hotel in Myrtle Beach, he was always finding a way to make a living as well as meet people. In 1952, Bruz married his beloved wife, Celeste Turbeville, who predeceased him in 2016. Bruz is survived by his two sons, Porter “Rocky” Rivers III and spouse Lisa Givens of Columbia, Mark T. Rivers and his spouse Brian Sisley of Atlanta, GA; and two grandchildren, Porter “Dusty” Rivers IV, and Shelby A. Rivers. Throughout his career, Bruz made notable contributions to various industries. He started young working for the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad. In the 1960s, he helped usher in the computer age at BL Montague Company. Later, he embarked on an entrepreneurial journey, co-founding Rivers – Wilson, a successful furniture and appliance store alongside his late sister, Peggy Wilson, and brother-in-law, Hank Wilson. Their partnership flourished, becoming a cherished destination for the community. Bruz's entrepreneurial spirit knew no bounds. He ventured into the textile industry and established two thriving sewing companies, Palmetto Textiles and later Zimac's. His commitment to quality and excellence propelled these businesses to great success, further solidifying his reputation as a visionary and a leader. Beyond his professional achievements, Bruz was known for his generous spirit and kind heart. He was a pillar of strength for his family and a source of inspiration for all who knew him. Bruz's warm smile, wisdom, and unwavering support will be dearly missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched. He had a love for all things mechanical. Whether it was his old Hudson car, his 35 hp Johnson outboard motor, or his Aeronca airplane, he was always finding new ways to travel. He was a licensed pilot and loved fishing and boating on Santee. The family would like to express their gratitude to all friends and well-wishers for their condolences and support during this difficult time. Funeral Services to celebrate Bruz's life will be held at 11 A.M. Saturday in the Chapel of the Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home with Rev. Kay Keels and Rev. Diane Moseley officiating. Burial will follow in the Sumter Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M. Saturday at the Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Spears Cemetery Association, P. O. Box 874, Bennettsville, SC 29512, in honor of Bruz's memory. As we bid farewell to a remarkable individual, let us remember Bruz for his indomitable spirit, love for his family, and enduring impact on the community. May his soul find eternal peace. "Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy." - Eskimo Proverb Online condolences may be made at www.sumterfunerals.com Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home & Crematory, 221 Broad Street, Sumter, is in charge of the arrangements (803) 775-9386.