Obituaries

Ronald Stewart "Go Go" Rivers, 59, of Cordele, beloved father of Rheannon Miles Rivers and Chad James Rivers, and grandfather of Kemp Nathan Rivers, passed away in the early light of Wednesday, February 3, 2010.  Born May 11, 1950, he was the son of James Spurgeon Rivers and Dorothy Smith Rivers, who preceded him in death, as did his brother, Herschel Matthews Rivers and a half-brother, James S. Rivers, Jr., as well as a nephew, Joseph Matthews Rivers.  He is also survived by his brother, Tolliver Randolph Rivers of Albany; nephews, Todd Randolph Rivers, Tolliver Randolph Rivers, Jr. and Jesse Rivers; and his maternal aunt, Winnie Hendley. He began his career on WMJM in Cordele as DJ "Rocking Ron a Go-Go" as a teenager.  After learning the radio business from his father, he went on to represent record labels and traveled the road with famous rock and roll bands such as Van Halen and Aerosmith.  He garnered myriad awards for outstanding record sales including many, many gold records.  He had his own record label with his dear friend Mo which they named Moron Records.  Mr. Rivers was possessed of a wicked sense of humor, a love of laughter, an adventurous spirit and a special fondness for travel.  He enjoyed making new friends abroad, fine cuisine and was, in fact, the perfect traveling companion to those lucky enough to have toured with him.  He also loved fishing, which exercised his limited patience, foreign art and artifacts.  He was a gentleman when it counted and a successful businessman.  More importantly, he was the absolute best friend in the world: trust-worthy, unconditionally loving, and unfailingly there the minute he was needed.  With his phenomenal life experience, Mr. Rivers was a consummate raconteur.  He will be sorely missed for his excellent company.  And, it is hoped that they let him play the music really loudly where he has gone without us.  He always said, "Every day is a gift."  A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday in the chapel of Rainey Family Funeral Service.  The family will greet friends at the funeral home prior to the service on Saturday from 12:30 until 2:00 p.m.  They may be contacted at the residence of LeeAnne Rivers at 546 Scenic Route, Cordele, GA 31015.