Wilfred Anthony Rier, Jr. (“Ant”), eldest of two sons born to Wilfred A. Rier and Juanita Washington-Rier, began his journey on November 20, 1970. Ant graduated from the High School of Art and Design. Although he did excel in Art and Music, his true passion was anything connected with trains. He used to collect train schedules when traveling. When the M.T.A. hired him, his dream was realized. He started as a track worker and advanced to heavy equipment, crane operator. His future goal was to return to school and obtain an engineering degree.

Ant welcomed challenges and opportunities to make a difference. Ant and his fellow M.T.A. workers along with first responders worked side-by-side clearing tunnels and removing debris caused by the attack of September 11. Ant decided to enlist in the Army Reserve because as he said, “Clearing tunnels isn’t enough. I want to do more.” Years of knowledge and experience coupled with a genuine love of country, job and people, motivated him to do beyond what was expected of him. Along the way, he made countless friends.

Ant’s love of biking was more than a hobby. He viewed biking as a unique way to bond with other fathers and families throughout the country. He thoroughly enjoyed life in spite of bouts with debilitating sickness. His children were his oxygen, his alarm clock, his bedtime story, his motivation, his life. The most memorable times for him were those times spent with his children.

Asha Inez Rier, a daughter, preceded Ant’s going home. On April 21, 2015, Wilfred A. Rier, Jr. was called home in peace to join her. His life, though short-lived, was well-spent and impacted many lives in a positive way. Memories of him will always bring smiles to the faces of all who knew and loved him.

Among those left to cherish memories are his parents, Wilfred A. Rier and Juanita Washington-Rier; eldest son Timothy Jourdan (T.J.) Smith; youngest son, Kaseem Rashaad Rier; two daughters, Medina Kai Rier and Imani Clarissa-Ruth Rier; sister, Renee Tonya Rier-Jones; two brothers, Michael Cameron Rier and Sean Kenneth Rier; two nieces, Makenzi Rier, Nylah Rier; three nephews, Tairi Asante Buchanan, Evan Asa Jones and Jordan Palmer; granddaughter, Madison; brother-in-law, Christopher Aaron Jones; uncle, Walter Washington, Sr.; five aunts, Patricia Ann Sistrunk, Annette Lopez, Martina Rier, Diana Rier, and Idania Wright; his “two amigos” Darrick Benitez and Darien Lafayette; two great-aunts, two great-uncles, many cousins, numerous co-workers and a multitude of friends.

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