The Long Island theater world is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Jon Rivera, the cherished Director of Operations at CM Performing Arts Center in Oakdale, New York. Jon, a proud resident of Middle Island, leaves behind not only a legacy of performance and leadership but also a wide community of friends, colleagues, and admirers who cherished his presence both on and off the stage.

Jon’s life was not only filled with creativity and passion but also with unshakable friendship, generosity, and unwavering authenticity. He was the kind of person who made everyone feel seen, heard, and respected. In the fast-moving and often challenging world of community theater, Jon was a constant—dependable, kind, and always there with a knowing smile or a movie quote that hit just right.

A Legacy Onstage and Off

Jon had a gift—one that transcended his own performances. He had a way of lighting up every rehearsal room, every backstage corner, and every post-show gathering. Whether he was leading a production behind the scenes or stealing the spotlight with his signature confidence and stage presence, Jon brought magic into every space he occupied. He was known for his ability to move seamlessly from one theater company to the next, loved and welcomed everywhere he went.

“Not a single person in the entire scene had a bad thing to say about him,” one friend recalled. “Everyone loved him.” That universal admiration wasn’t about reputation—it was earned, moment by moment, through his compassion, humility, humor, and genuine care for the people around him.

Unforgettable Memories, Unshakable Bond

Those closest to Jon carry a rich tapestry of memories—moments of laughter, connection, and heartfelt advice. There were unforgettable nights like Ronnieween, filled with laughter, music, and a sense of belonging. There was the summer of 2015, when Jon passed along the now-legendary “magic comb”—one he had blessed by a priest for good luck—as a gesture of trust and friendship during a shared performance.

There were the spontaneous double dinners at Kotobuki, tailgates for bachelor parties, and bus rides full of jokes and storytelling. And then there were the more personal moments—like Jon offering guidance on how to win over protective Puerto Rican parents, or simply being a station buddy during a show like Superstar.

“He was someone I looked up to more than anyone,” a friend wrote. “Because he never looked down on me. He treated me like an equal, even when I was just starting out. He showed me that being a nerd didn’t make you any less of a man. And neither did loving theater.”

A Man of Integrity, Heart, and Humor

Jon was beloved not only for his artistic brilliance, but also for his soul-deep decency. He had a sharp wit and an encyclopedic knowledge of pop culture—his insight into superheroes, comic books, and films often reminded people of Kevin Smith’s reflective genius. But beneath the humor was a heart that understood people deeply.

He had a rare gift: making you feel like the most important person in the room. Whether you were a seasoned performer or brand new to the scene, Jon made you feel valued. He was the guy you could talk to about anything and everything. And his handshake—a simple but sincere gesture—carried more meaning than words ever could.

Gone Too Soon, Remembered Forever

Though no one was ready to say goodbye, Jon’s legacy is alive in every stage light that flickers on, every curtain that rises, and every performer who dares to take a risk because of the encouragement he gave them. He showed countless people what it means to lead with grace, love without reservation, and create fearlessly.

To know Jon Rivera was to feel like family. And while photos may fade, the memories—full of laughter, music, and unconditional acceptance—will live on in the hearts of all who had the joy of knowing him.

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For those who wish to honor Jon, consider attending a local production, mentoring a young performer, or simply making someone feel valued—just as he did.