Mary Frances Tolliver Rivers was born in Macon, Georgia, on March 18, 1926. She is the youngest daughter of Lizzie Mae and Reddick Tolliver, Sr. Mrs. Rivers moved to Detroit, Michigan, with her husband, Robert L. Rivers, Sr., and two daughters in the early 1950s. A longtime resident of Detroit, Mrs. Rivers currently lives in Farmington Hills, Michigan, a Detroit suburb, near her family.
Mrs. Rivers maintained order in her home, and she leveraged her organizational skills throughout her long career, retiring in her 70s. She was married for 60 years and raised three children, two daughters and one son. As the beloved matriarch of her family, she remains an inspiration to her four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
At 100, Mrs. Rivers stays sharp by playing bingo and bid whist. Her independent spirit and strong will are living testaments to her devotion to her family and her desire to live a righteous life.
She attributes her longevity to crossword puzzles, exercise, and quitting smoking. Mrs. Rivers is known for her coordinating fashion, speaking her mind, and her cooking, including her beloved macaroni and cheese, fried chicken, tea cakes, and fried shrimp.
A celebration honoring her 100th birthday will be held on Sunday, March 15, in Southfield, Michigan. Happy 100th Birthday, Mary Frances Tolliver Rivers!