Naya Rivera Online Memorial: Forever Loved and Remembered
In Loving Memory of Naya Rivera
American actress and singer
12 Jan 1987 — 8 July 2020
“Remembered for a voice, presence, and courage that helped many feel seen.”
Naya Rivera's Birth Location
Valencia
Naya Rivera's Burial Location
Forest Lawn Memorial Park
Naya Rivera's Death Location
Lake Piru
Naya’s A Life Heard Around the World
From the earliest musical beginnings to the songs, performances and human connections that shaped an enduring legacy
The Sounds That Shaped a Young Life for Naya
Born in Valencia, California, she first appeared as Hillary Winston on the CBS sitcom The Royal Family, earning early recognition while still a child.
Finding an Unmistakable Voice for Naya
After guest roles across television, she became internationally known as Santana Lopez on Glee, a role that showcased her sharp comedic timing, expressive singing voice, and the emotional depth she brought to a character who became meaningful to many LGBTQ+ viewers.
The Work That Reached the World for Naya
Rivera also appeared in Devious Maids, Step Up: High Water, film and voice roles, and released music including the single Sorry.
Craft Behind the Public Success for Naya
Off screen, she wrote with candor in her memoir Sorry Not Sorry, spoke openly about identity and representation, and supported causes including the Trevor Project, GLAAD, Stand Up to Cancer, and community organizations serving women and children.
Life Beyond the Stage for Naya
She was also a devoted mother to her son, Josey Hollis Dorsey.
Trials Met Along the Way for Naya
Rivera died after an accidental drowning at Lake Piru in California on July 8, 2020, at age 33.
Naya’s Where the Music First Began
Naya Marie Rivera was an American actress, singer, model, and author whose career began in childhood and grew into a lasting place in television history.
The Sounds That Shaped a Young Life for Naya — An Enduring Legacy
Born in Valencia, California, she first appeared as Hillary Winston on the CBS sitcom The Royal Family, earning early recognition while still a child.
Condolence Book: Your Words for Naya
Share a memory, a message of love or words of comfort with everyone who holds Naya close.
Volume of Memories
In Loving Memory of Naya Rivera
“Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day.”
Tap or swipe to open
Tip: use the arrows or the ← → keys to turn the pages.
Naya Rivera In Rhythm, Performance and Reflection
Photographs preserving the artist at work, the person beyond the stage and the moments audiences continue to hold close
Naya: A Defining Public Moment
A carefully preserved image from Naya Rivera’s life and public story.
Memory 1 of 6
Voices That Remember Naya
Family, collaborators and listeners reflect on the voice, character and creative spirit they remember
The Life Story ofNaya Rivera
Naya’s Story, Held Close
The beginnings, relationships, creative choices and defining work behind a life that continues to resonate
Naya’s Where the Music First Began
Naya Marie Rivera was an American actress, singer, model, and author whose career began in childhood and grew into a lasting place in television history.
The Sounds That Shaped a Young Life for Naya
Born in Valencia, California, she first appeared as Hillary Winston on the CBS sitcom The Royal Family, earning early recognition while still a child.
Finding an Unmistakable Voice for Naya
After guest roles across television, she became internationally known as Santana Lopez on Glee, a role that showcased her sharp comedic timing, expressive singing voice, and the emotional depth she brought to a character who became meaningful to many LGBTQ+ viewers.
The Work That Reached the World for Naya
Rivera also appeared in Devious Maids, Step Up: High Water, film and voice roles, and released music including the single Sorry.
Craft Behind the Public Success for Naya
Off screen, she wrote with candor in her memoir Sorry Not Sorry, spoke openly about identity and representation, and supported causes including the Trevor Project, GLAAD, Stand Up to Cancer, and community organizations serving women and children.
Life Beyond the Stage for Naya
She was also a devoted mother to her son, Josey Hollis Dorsey.
Trials Met Along the Way for Naya
Rivera died after an accidental drowning at Lake Piru in California on July 8, 2020, at age 33.
The Music and Memory That Remain for Naya
Her legacy endures through her performances, the visibility she helped create, and the affection of family, colleagues, and fans who continue to remember her warmth, humor, and strength.
The People at the Heart of Naya’s Life
The family relationships and generations that belong to Naya’s story.
The Brothers and Sisters Who Shared the Journey
Mychal Rivera
brother
Mychal Rivera is publicly documented as brother within Naya Rivera’s family story.
Beyond the Public Story: Remembering Naya
A more intimate visual remembrance of the warmth, humour and humanity that existed beyond public performance
In memory of Naya Rivera (1987–2020). Share stories, messages, and memories with family and friends.