James K. Riley

James K. Riley, age 79, passed away on November 29, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on September 4, 1946, in Fort Knox, Kentucky, Jim grew up in a proud military family whose travels took them across the world—spending more than eleven years in Europe. Those early experiences shaped his curiosity, humor, and deep appreciation for people from all walks of life.

Jim proudly served in the United States Army, stationed on the island of Okinawa during the Vietnam War. After his service, he carried forward the discipline of those years but never lost his light hearted spirit. Anyone who knew him knew he could fill a room with laughter in minutes.

Jim loved sports with a lifelong passion. He played football, basketball, and baseball throughout school. As an adult, he became an avid tennis player, competing for years and even earning a state ranking in doubles in Florida. He also followed in his father’s footsteps as a gifted bowler—bowling on the Senior Tour for several years and achieving multiple 300 games, a feat that brought him immense pride.

Professionally, Jim dedicated more than four decades to the hairstyling industry, owning and operating Jim Riley’s Hair Studio. He was a natural conversationalist—warm, funny, and impossible not to like—and he often joked that once he had someone in his chair, they were his captive audience. Over time, clients became friends, and friends became family.

Jim loved golf, enjoyed both college and professional football—never missing the chance to cheer on his Florida State Seminoles—and relished moments spent socializing with friends. A good bourbon and a smooth cigar were among his simple pleasures. With his unmistakable Irish smiling eyes and joyful presence, Jim rarely met a stranger.

He is survived by his loving wife, Judy, and his three children: Kerry, Sean, and Callie. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Gillian, Broden, and Annabelle—who, in her early childhood innocence, mistakenly but affectionately nicknamed him “Grandma Jim.” The name stuck, and to his delight, it became one of his favorites.

Jim would probably lean back right now, raise an eyebrow, chuckle, and say, “Well… what was that all about?”

A man full of humor, heart, and spirit, Jim often said he lived a very full life. Those who loved him would agree—and will forever carry his laughter, stories, and warmth in their hearts.