In the winter of 2018, the community of Florence, South Carolina, mourned the loss of Ocie Rivers, a man known for his charismatic ways and gentle demeanor. Born in Florence County on June 23, 1930, he was the youngest child of Reverend Alexander and Tressie McCall Rivers. Mr. Rivers answered his final call on Tuesday, January 2, 2018.
Educated in the public schools of Florence County, Ocie Rivers went on to serve his country in the United States Army, from which he was honorably
discharged. He had a deep passion for music, and in his earlier years, he played the bass guitar and sang. He toured and recorded as a member of several gospel singing groups, including The Five Angels Gospel Singers and the Sensational Five Angels. In the late 1980s, he returned to his hometown of Florence, where he continued his trade in cement work and also worked as a landscaper. His love for playing checkers and fishing were well-known among those who knew him.
His passing was preceded by that of his parents and several siblings. He was survived by his wife, Idella Rivers, a daughter, a son, three grandchildren, and one great-grandchild, along with two step-daughters and a host of other relatives and friends who cherished his memory.
