Elizabeth "Liz" Rivera, 71, of Milford, Connecticut, passed away on Sunday, September 27, 2026.

Elizabeth "Liz" Rivera, 71, of Milford, Connecticut, passed away on Sunday, September 27, 2026, after a brief illness, surrounded by her loving family and dear friend, Andrea Murray.

Born in Milford on June 7, 1955, to the late Robert and Claire Phelan, Liz was a proud graduate of Lauralton Hall and lifelong resident of Milford.

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Continuing a proud family tradition, Liz built a long and accomplished career with the railroad, retiring from Metro-North Railroad after decades as a lead ticket seller. Early in her career, she was trained by a senior ticket seller named Nelson Rivera, who became the love of her life. They were married in 1998 and Liz often said that the 26 years of marriage with her beloved "Nelly" before his passing in 2024 were the best years of her life. Though the family is heartbroken by her sudden loss, they take great comfort in knowing these two beautiful souls are reunited once again, together for eternity.

Liz had a generous heart and gave freely of her time, volunteering throughout Milford and serving for many years as a devoted docent at the Stratford Historical Society. A true beach lover, she could often be found strolling the shore at Gulf Beach or climbing the rocks at Anchor Beach. She was a voracious reader and an avid card player, and later in life she developed a passion for British dramas. She never turned down a sausage pie from Modern Apizza and cherished her regular dinners with friends and family at Cracker Barrel.

Liz was deeply devoted to her sobriety and found tremendous joy in helping others find their own way. Through her compassion, love, and understanding, she offered encouragement to those who were struggling and reminded them that they did not have to face their journey alone. She always provided an understanding ear, a caring heart, and a safe place for others to share their experiences.

Above all, Liz's greatest joy was her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She never hesitated to tell a perfect stranger all about them, often pulling out her phone for a seemingly never-ending slideshow. She had a special gift for making each child feel seen, loved, and one of a kind. A day at Grandma's meant coming home happily messy from the beach or an art project, usually with a new book or toy in hand.

Liz is lovingly survived by her children, Richard, Christian (Jennifer), Cheryl (Michael), Nelson (Lisa), and Adam (Olga), and by her 19 adoring grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who will forever cherish their memories of Grandma; her brother, James Phelan; her sister, Kate Phelan; countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family; and a lifetime of dear friends.

Liz was predeceased by her loving husband, Nelson Rivera; her parents, Robert and Claire Phelan; and her brother, Bob Phelan.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Monday, October 12, 2026, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St., Milford. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Mary Church (Precious Blood Parish), 70 Gulf St., Milford. Please meet directly at the church. Burial will be private and held at a later date.

Liz faced many health challenges in her later years with remarkable courage and grace, most notably multiple sclerosis. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the National MS Society at nationalmssociety.org.

To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.