Vernon O'Neal Riley

COLUMBIA - Vernon O’Neal Riley passed away on Monday, May 4, 2020 after a brief heart-related illness. He was born February 9, 1940 in Williston, SC to the late Marion O. & Ethel Riley before moving to Columbia at the age of 3.

Mr. Riley was diagnosed with Type I Diabetes at age 17 and lived with the condition for the next 63 years. He graduated from Eau Claire High School and the University of South Carolina and spent his professional career as a Fiduciary Tax Officer with C&S Bank/Nationsbank/Bank of America. He served 27 years as the Treasurer of First Baptist Church of Columbia and spent 15 years as a Trustee for the Baptist Foundation of SC. He enjoyed all things mechanical and was most proud of having built his own replica 1952 MG convertible. He had a subtle wit and enjoyed driving his convertible dressed as Santa Claus on Christmas Eve.

Mr. Riley is survived by his wife of 54 years, Beverly Tuten Riley; sons, Derek (Debi Schadel) and Brent (Lisa); and grandchildren, Deven & Arden Riley and Elle & Grant Rose. He also is survived by a brother, Wynn Riley, of New York City.

Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 15829, Arlington, VA 22215; the First Baptist Church of Columbia Endowment Fund, 1306 Hampton St, Columbia, SC 29201; or the Endowment Fund of the Baptist Foundation of SC, 190 Stoneridge Drive, Columbia, SC 29210.

Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.