Robert David Riley

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Robert David Riley, a cherished brother, born on November 17, 1944, who departed from this world on December 22, 2023. Robert was preceded in death by his father Bob S Riley and his mother Louise Shaw Riley and his younger sister Marlene. Robert's life was a testament to the joy he found in the pursuit of passions and the exploration of the mysteries that time has woven.

A devoted lover of the outdoors, Robert found solace by the water's edge, where he liked nothing better than baiting a hook or adding a lure to catch the big one. His love for fishing was more than a pastime; it was a spiritual connection to nature, a place where he found peace and tranquility.

Robert's inquisitive spirit led him on countless adventures through the remnants of history. In his quest for the past, he uncovered treasures hidden in the nooks and crannies of old houses, each artifact telling a story of days long gone. Coins, bottles, and digging for dinosaur bones in SW Arkansas were passions that scratched the itch he so sought after.

His wife of 40 plus years, Susan, was a pillar of strength, supporting him with unwavering love through sickness and health in his last few months. Their bond was a testament to enduring love and shared adventures.

The family would like to express gratitude and acknowledge his brother Mike for his extraordinary compassion and grace. Mike, with love and tenderness, visited Robert at the nursing home on many occasions, where he, with a steady hand, lovingly shaved him and afterwards to pat his face with Aqua Velva. Robert sincerely appreciated this. Mike, a Vietnam War Veteran also ensured that Robert felt the connection to his time in the Marines from 1963-1970 by buying him thoughtful gifts, reminding him of the camaraderie and dedication of those years.

Robert leaves behind a legacy that extends beyond his immediate family. He is survived by 11 nieces, 4 nephews, 14 great-nieces, 8 great-nephews, 4 great-great-nieces, and 1 great-great nephew, each of whom holds a special place in their adventurous uncle's heart. In addition to his nieces and nephews, Robert is survived by 5 siblings, Mike, Jeff, Debbie, Charlene, and Tricy, who will carry forward his memory with love and fondness. He is also survived by his son, Robert, Jr., of Dallas, Texas. His wife's family who lovingly took him in as one of their own wishes to celebrate his life and mourn his passing to include his 96 year old mother-in-law Jackie, his brother and sister-in-law, Jerry and Lesley, and Susan's close cousins Craig and Peggy, and nieces Lauri and Lindsay.

As Emily Dickinson once wrote: "Because I could not stop for Death – He kindly stopped for me – The Carriage held but just Ourselves – And Immortality." In the spirit of these words, Robert's memory will live on, carried by those who loved him and the tales of his adventures.

A memorial service in honor of Robert's life will be held on Friday, January 12, 2024 at 11:30 A.M.