Maurice Rivers often called "Reese" took his final breath on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. He was born on August 16, 1953, in Akron, Ohio, to the late Irvin and Sufern Rivers. He was the second youngest of five children: Bernadine Scott, Irvin Rivers, Jr., Larry Rivers, and LaVerne Rivers. As a young child, his friends called him "Troop."

Maurice graduated from the Akron Public School System. In 1975, Maurice came to Toledo after being transferred from the Roadway Akron Facility. He started his career as a Mechanic and received his certification as a Journeyman Mechanic through the Roadway Apprentice Program. He was a member of the Teamsters Local 20. Reese fell in love with Panella Brown, and they were married in 1992. To this union, they had a son, Alex Maurice Rivers.