William J. (Bill) Riley

William J. (Bill) Riley, 86, of Morehead, Kentucky, joyfully entered the gates of heaven on September 28, 2019. 

Bill was born August 29, 1933, in Springfield, Ohio, to John and Ruth McCabe Riley.  He loved his early years in Springfield, attending Saint Bernard Catholic School and Catholic Central High School.  Following graduation, he served as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army 82^nd Airborne.

After his military service, Bill graduated from the University of Dayton, where he met his love, Catherine Bray.  Bill and Catherine celebrated their 61^st wedding anniversary on August 9, 2019.  The union was blessed with five children: Rose Patrick (Mark), Versailles, KY; Jane Riley (Jim), Louisville, KY; Daniel Riley (Angela), Versailles, KY; Andrew Riley (Shelia), Versailles, KY; and Joseph Riley (Danna), Batavia, OH; four grandchildren, Jennifer, Anthony, Elisabeth, and Sydney; one great grandson, Grayson; and many nieces and nephews.  He is also survived by one brother, Tom Riley (Dolores) of Urbana, OH. 

Bill’s life was a testament to his strong Christian faith.  He loved to attend daily mass, pray the rosary and participate in all church activities.  He served many years in a jail ministry and volunteered to help with blood drives and literacy programs over the years. 

His career of Human Resources leadership spanned forty years in manufacturing, healthcare, and eventual retirement from Morehead State University.  While serving the university, Bill completed a Master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling.  He was selected as the Outstanding Graduate from the program.

Bill was a proud member of the CUPA-HR Association, Knights of Columbus, Morehead Men’s Club, Rowan County Retired Teachers Association, Rotary International and Corbie Ellington Morehead American Legion Post 126.  He especially enjoyed his time serving in the Legion Honor Guard. 

A funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, October 3, 2019, at Jesus Our Savior Catholic Church, 315 Battson Avenue, Morehead, KY 40351. The Rev. Arturo Molina will officiate.  Visitation will be 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, October 2, 2019, at Northcutt and Son Home for Funerals with military honors presented at 8 p.m. by Morehead American Legion Post 126.  Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery in Bellefontaine, OH.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his name to the Hope Pregnancy Care Center at 167 E Main St, Morehead, KY 40351.  Condolences may be sent to Catherine Riley, 214 Chestnut Lane, Versailles, KY 40383.

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