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CORDELE, Ga. (WALB) – The City of Cordele is mourning the loss of longtime public servant and beloved community leader, Commissioner A.J. Rivers, who passed away at the age of 99.

Commissioner Rivers made history as the first African American elected to a citywide office in Cordele, serving from 1972 to 2015. During his decades of service, he held the role of vice-chairman for many of those years and was known for his unwavering commitment to the people of Cordele.

He was also a lifelong member of Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, where he remained active in faith and community until his passing.

Commissioner Rivers is survived by his wife, Vera, and their children Gwen, Greg, Glenda, and Fain, along with six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by J.W. Williams Funeral Home.

For more information, visit: J.W. Williams Obituary Page

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