John Riley Fenley

Riley was a kind, brave and humble friend to all. He leaves behind his mother, Susan Riley Fenley of Charlotte, NC; his beloved sister, Alison Ann Curtis (Jameson); his precious niece, Charlotte Riley Curtis; and nephew, Samuel Michael Curtis. Additionally, Riley leaves his maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas C. Peterson of Prairie Village, Kansas; his uncles, David E Riley Jr. of Kansas City and Thomas Peterson of Florida; his aunt, Beth Sykora (Michael) of Kansas City MO; as well as his favorite cousins, Lauren Riley and Lyndsey Walton of Kansas City. MO.

Riley attended Huntingtowne Farms and Smithfield Elementary school in Charlotte, NC, as well as Quail Hollow Middle School until he transferred over to Holy Trinity and Charlotte Catholic. Riley attended Western Carolina, UNCC and graduated from CPCC with an associate degree.

Riley was so proud of his prized red Mustang, as well as the time he spent in high school as a member of the Pineville Volunteer Fire Department. Riley was an animal lover, a great listener, a true role model, brave beyond measure and empathetic to all. He was our hero, and we will never forget him. To quote our Charlotte “it’s time to Be BIG Brave.”

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, November 2, 2023 at 3:00 pm in the McEwen Pineville Chapel, 10500 Park Road, Charlotte, NC, followed by a Celebration of Life to honor Riley at Trio Restaurant located at 10709 McMullen Creek Parkway, Charlotte, NC.

Riley adored his Charlotte and Sam with all his heart; therefore, a memorial fund has been established in Riley’s name for Chameleon’s Journey (a local children’s grief camp) through Charlotte Hospice and Palliative Care – VIA Health Partners, www.chameleonsjourney.org or 704-375-0100.

As a family we are grateful for your consideration of this worthy cause. #Rileystrong