John Charles Reilly Jr.

John Charles Reilly, Jr., of Raleigh, NC, passed away on January 20, 2018, after a valiant battle with cancer. He was born in Detroit, Michigan, on August 9, 1943, attended Monroe High School in Monroe, Michigan, and graduated from the University of Michigan School Of Engineering in Ann Arbor, Michigan, in 1965.

John raised his children in West Lafayette, Indiana; Grafton, Wisconsin; and Syracuse, New York. His chemical engineering career most recently took him to Glaxo Smith Klein in Research Triangle Park and London, England. John also lived in Seal Beach, California, before he and Betty made their home in Raleigh in 1990.

He is survived by his devoted wife Betty Levine Reilly, daughter Ann Reilly Gehringer (Alton), son John Brian Reilly, grandchildren Kathleen, Elijah, Evan, and Grace Reilly, sister Patricia McIntosh, brother David Ferris (Trish), brother-in-law David Levine (Laurel), nieces and nephews, and many cherished friends. He mentored and loved like sons Colm Clery (Mairead) of Birr, Ireland and his nephew Paul LaCoursiere (Karen) of London, England. John was predeceased by his parents John Reilly, Sr., and Louise Accordino, and his first wife Kathleen McHugh.

John was an avid horseman, and his love for his horses provided years of enjoyment and an extensive group of beloved friends. He also had a passion for sailing and the game of hockey.

John and Betty’s love of adventure took them to many beautiful places around the world where they established lasting friendships.

A service to celebrate John’s life will be held Friday, January 26 at 1:00 pm at Brown-Wynne Funeral Home (1701 E. Millbrook Rd. Raleigh), with a reception following the celebration at the same location.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in John’s name to any of the following: NCSU College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Michigan School of Engineering, or The American Cancer Society.

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