James D. Riley

He was born December 6, 1932 in Mount Vernon, Illinois, a son of Herman and Eva Riley. He married Joanne Hutchison on August 2, 1953 in Mount Vernon.

He is survived by three grandchildren: Justin (Melanie) Riley of Pekin, Lindsey (Ronan) Shableski of Chicago, and Dane (Nichole) Riley of Pekin. Also surviving are six great-grandchildren: Hailey Hays, Olivia Riley, Conor Shableski, Maverick Riley, Anders Shableski, and Caden Shableski.

He was preceded in death by his two parents, his siblings Ann Reed and Mary Riley, his beloved wife of over 55 years Joanne Riley, and their only child James Eric (Sheryl) Riley of Pekin.

Jim lived in Mount Vernon until he was married, moved with his wife to Centralia, Illinois, and shortly thereafter to Pekin where he spent his adult life. The move to Pekin was necessitated by his job as a traveling salesman for Arthur Fulmer Corporation. However, shortly after the move he took a position with Caterpillar Tractor Company. He spent decades advancing his position until he retired in 1990. His wife retired a few years later and, while they enjoyed taking many trips, they most enjoyed spending their winters in Destin, Florida with friends.

As a child of the great depression, pursuing a hobby was out of the question; though he did have a lifelong interest in aviation. Visiting local airports just to watch the planes come and go was a favorite pastime. Eventually he built and flew several model airplanes. He even earned his private pilot license at one point in time.

While he was known for his colorful personality and even more so for his colorful wardrobe, his true passion was helping people. He lifted his own family’s station immeasurably. He was always available to help a friend. Even helping complete strangers was commonplace. He didn’t know it at the time, but, fittingly, the last check he wrote was to his church: Pekin First Church of the Nazarene. It is believed by his family that this lifetime of giving will be his legacy.

Cremation has been accorded by Preston-Hanley Funeral Home. No services will be held.

Online condolences may be shared with Jim's family at www.Preston-Hanley.com

In lieu of flowers or donations we encourage you to pursue your own good deed in his honor.