Cecil Gary Riley

Cecil Gary Riley of Hickory passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 26th, at Trinity Ridge at the age of 76, following a period of declining health. Cecil was born in Catawba County, to the late Rush Hoyle Riley and Edith Teague Riley Deaton. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife Carolyn “Sue” Crowder Riley; son Michael S. Riley; sisters Linda Dellinger, Betty Crowder, and Dorothy Joann Herman; as well as his brothers Ray Riley and Larry Riley.

Those left to cherish his memory including his wife Diane Marie Riley; daughters Cecilia Netko-Riley and Carolyn Farley; daughter-in-law Dawn Netko-Riley and son-in-law Rickey Farley; grandsons Corporal Devin E. Propst, Desmond Farley, and Dayshaun Farley; and sister Ivey Jean Dickinson.

Cecil was known for his humor, high energy level and love of his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Cecil enjoyed tending to and raising a variety of farm animals. He was also an avid homing pigeon racer. A long-time member of the Catawba Crafters, he helped create and deliver crocheted hats, blankets, and other items to the homeless, nursing home patients, and hospitals. He was a man of faith and made several trips to the middle east and the holy land. Cecil was an Army veteran and proud grandfather of a US Marine.

The family will receive friends from 3 – 4:45 pm Wednesday, July 2nd at Hickory Funeral Home. A celebration of life service will follow at 5 pm, in the Chapel, with the Rev. Steph Smith Kelly officiating.

The family would like to acknowledge the loving and compassionate care provided by both Trinity Ridge and Carolina Caring. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to either of these organizations in Cecil’s memory.