Dr. J. Lance Rivers

Former Illinois resident, Lance Rivers, 58. died December 23, 2017 at his home in Salem, Ohio. Lance was born January of 1959 to John and Wilma Rivers. Professor Rivers graduated from the University of Illinois where he studied Swedish and film. Following an eclectic career that included nannying for his niece, he returned to Southern Illinois University where he received his PhD. in English. He worked on the faculty of Lake Superior State in Sault Sainte Marie, MI before getting his dream job in the English department of Kent State, Salem, OH. Lance found a true home in Ohio where he enjoyed reading, cooking, writing poetry, painting, gardening, his cats; Sparks, Gypsy and Scout; and reading. He had a warm and generous heart, a keen intellect, and an unsurpassed sense of humor. Lance will be missed by his many friends and family.

He is survived by his mother, Wilma (Barnard) Rivers of Pekin, IL; sister, Stacia Rivers of Marine on St Croix, MN; and niece, Julia (Farrell) Rivers of Minneapolis, MN. Lance was preceded in death by his father John P. Rivers formerly of Pekin, IL and Meridian, MS.

At his request, a celebration of life will be held at Kent State University, Salem, Ohio on Sunday January 14, 2018 at 3:00PM program will begin at 2:00PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: KSU Foundation; 2491 State Route 45 South; Salem, OH 44460.  Friends may send condolences and sign the guest register online at www.brownfhonline.com.  Arrangements are by Brown Funeral Home, Salem, OH (330) 337-6363.

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