Read Evelyn "Evey" Rivera-Willoughby's Obituary & Leave Condolences

In memory of

Evelyn "Evey" Rivera-Willoughby

Coconut Creek, FL, USA

July 2, 1951 - February 3, 2021

Jul 2, 1951 - Feb 3, 2021

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Evelyn Rivera Willoughby was born on July 2nd 1951 in Bellevue Hospital New York City to Concepcion Salaman De Jesus and Gilberto Rivera, but raised by her step-father Julio Pellecier. She transitioned from this plane of life on February 3rd, 2021 in Coconut Creek Florida. She is survived by her husband of 33 years Ian Willoughby, daughter Angie Willoughby, grandson Daniel Diaz, son Alex Willoughby. Also continuing her legacy is her only sister Nancy Pellecier, nieces Naima Cordova and Dayna Feitosa and great nieces and nephews; Kamian, Nahuel, Juelz, Aaliyah, Nasir and Eve. She was pre deceased by her brother Julio Pellicier Jr. mother Concepcion and father Julio.

Her life was a shining example of warmth, love and determination to live on her own terms.

Evelyn was a long time practicing SGI-USA Nichiren Buddhist whose life affirming philosophy drove her everyday interactions. She started her practice in New York, then her familial island of Puerto Rico and last in South Florida, along the way she made so many friends and connected and touch so many people's lives with her bright smile and quick ability to encourage and inspire others in their own life.

She also was a avid lover of healthy living, yoga and overall health and wellness. After many years of suffering with intense hip pain she had hip replacement surgery and declared that this was the best decision because she could now do her yoga, walking and other exercises without any restrictions. She used this time and experience to encourage and support others who were also dealing with health and pain issues. Never giving into the pain and discomfort, she recovered and came back stronger then ever!

And lastly, Evelyn's pride and joy was her husband and family. She diligently stayed in contact with elderly family near and far, always imparting words of wisdom, positivity and laughter to in-laws and cousins and watched over the growth and development of the next generation of her family being a great aunt. Her husband of over 3 decades, Ian, was her travel buddy and they spread their love and care throughout the four corners of the world as she enjoyed the golden stage of life. There was no greater joy for her then the moments she shared with her family on holidays and special occasions and even in her travels.

Evelyn will be greatly missed, but we carry with us a shining diamond of memories in the treasures of the heart, as wisdom, resilience, determination and joy that she brought to all of us in this world.

"Those who believe in the Lotus Sutra are as if in winter, but winter always turns to spring. Never, from ancient times on, has anyone seen or heard of winter turning back to autumn. Nor have we ever heard of a believer in the Lotus Sutra who turned into an ordinary person. The sutra reads, “If there are those who hear the Law, then not a one will fail to attain Buddhahood.”
-Writings of Nichiren Daishonin Vol 1 Pg. 536

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