Travis Dale Rivers

Chesterfield, SC – Mr. Travis Dale Rivers, age 43, peacefully passed away on December 8, 2025, at his home. A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 PM on Sunday, December 14, 2025, in the Gymnasium of Chesterfield – Ruby Middle School, with Pastor Jamie Gulledge officiating. Friends Chad Lee, Darvius Colyer, Charles E. Redfearn, Ceili Hasul, and his daughter, Reagan, will deliver heartfelt tributes during the service. Mr. Rivers will be laid to rest in the Palmetto Baptist Church Cemetery, Patrick, SC. The family welcomes friends from 12:00 PM – 2:45 PM on Sunday prior to the service in the gymnasium.

Mr. Rivers was born on May 10, 1982, in Florence, SC. He graduated from Chesterfield High School in 2000, where he actively participated in basketball and the Chesterfield Marching Rams band, a place where he met the love of his life. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Francis Marion University, followed by a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Grand Canyon University. Mr. Rivers later obtained an Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University.

He began his teaching career in 2007 at Cheraw High School, where he taught mathematics for five years. In 2012, he became the Assistant Principal at Chesterfield – Ruby Middle School, serving for eight years before being appointed Principal in 2020, a role he held for five years. Mr. Rivers took great pride in his work at both schools, always sharing his commitment to excellence through his “Rams tough” and “Braves pride” spirit.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Mr. Rivers enjoyed activities such as golfing and participating in the YMCA basketball league. A fan of video games, he was known for his lively presence during gatherings, particularly when attempting to dance. He was also a great cook, despite his distaste for the ensuing cleanup. As a dedicated supporter, he was a lifelong fan of the South Carolina Gamecocks.

Mr. Rivers' influence on countless young lives within the Chesterfield County School District was profound. He created a strong rapport with fellow educators and staff, creating an environment of mutual respect and camaraderie.

Above all his achievements, Travis cherished his role as a father to his three children. He was devoted to attending Reagan's softball games, fishing with Dexter, and sharing quiet moments snuggling with Zoe. His children knew they were deeply loved and appreciated by their father.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Robert J. Funderburk and Barbara W. Funderburk; aunt, Melissa “Missy” Funderburk Wallace; and father-in-law, Joe Campbell.

Survivors include his wife, Lizzie Campbell; children, Reagan Campbell Rivers, Dexter Reid Rivers, and Zoe Reece Rivers; parents, Dena & Jerry Gainey of Chesterfield; sister, Jennifer Rivers of Chesterfield; brother-in-law, Jason Stafford of Chesterfield; sister-in-law, Pam (Tudor) Sturzu of Cheraw; sister-in-law, Tracey Campbell of Chesterfield; mother-in-law, Judy “Ma” Campbell of Chesterfield; niece, Jenna Stafford; nephew, Jase Stafford; aunts and uncles, Robbie & Dawn Funderburk of Ruby, Scarlet Moore (Matt) of Patrick; and cousins, Melissa (Josh) Winburn, Trent Moore, and Cody Funderburk.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to neighbor and friend, Ceili Hasul, for her unwavering friendship and support during this time.

In honor of his legacy, the family is establishing a scholarship fund in Travis’s memory, aimed at fostering education and continuing the impact he had on young lives. Contributions can be directed to Carolina Bank & Trust, 166 Olde Towne Center, Chesterfield, SC 29709.

Miller-Rivers-Caulder Funeral Home (www.mrcfuneralhome.com) of Chesterfield is serving the Rivers family.