Obituary of Paul R. Riley
With heavy hearts and incredible pride of a life well lived, the family wish to announce the peaceful passing of Paul Riley on October 25, 2024 at Bobby’s Hospice. With his family by his side, he approached life’s adversities at the end of his journey with the same energy he did throughout his life: with dignity, grace, bravery, strong faith, fierce resolve for responsibility, without complaint and an unwavering and profound love of his family.
Paul leaves behind a grateful family who will continue to cherish him: beloved wife, Judith Riley of 52 years (nee McHugh); son, Christopher Riley (wife Sarah); daughter, Patricia Black (husband Dave); and his pride and joy, grandson Colin Black, for whom he had immense pride. He has many cherished cousins, nieces, nephews and friends whom he held close to his heart throughout his life.
He is pre-deceased by his mother, Regina Riley who lived to be 101, and his father George Riley whom he lost at the age of 7. The special mother-son connection they shared after his father’s untimely death continued throughout his life as they took care of each other. Integral to his upbringing was his grandmother Annie Kiley, and aunts and uncles: William, Leo, Marion, Urban, Patrick, Ellen, Margaret, Rita, David and their families. We gain much comfort knowing he is now with those who loved him dearly.
Education was heavily woven into the fabric of his life. He attended schools in East Saint John graduating from Simonds High School. His mother, through great effort, ensured he had every opportunity to attend university, and she was immensely proud when he graduated from St. Thomas and later the University of New Brunswick, becoming a well-respected educator in the city. He finished his career with 12 years as principal of St. Rose School developing valued relationships with teachers, staff and the community. He felt privileged to be chosen to transition the illustrious Saint John Vocational School to Harbour View High School from 1997-2002. He was proud of his team of educators and support staff who shared his vision to create a school that would facilitate all students becoming the best versions of themselves in a supportive and enriching environment. Harbour View High School had a piece of his heart and he was delighted to watch his grandson attend and enjoy the incredible opportunities the school continued to provide.
Gregarious, confident and self assured, he loved his family beyond measure; especially his grandson Colin who endearingly called him Buddy. Buddy spent much of his retirement at various events, sports games, cold rinks, gymnasiums, graduations, and other celebrations. We all relied heavily on his support and his ability to provide for us throughout his life. He was a pillar of our family and we will be forever grateful for the impact he had on us. He was and will continue to be our hero.
Thank you, Dad, for all that you’ve taught us by example: faith, resilience, hard work, commitment, dedication, values, emotional intelligence, and resolve. Your example will continue to live on in us. As hard as it is to say goodbye, we treasure the lifetime of memories we have and will live better lives because of you. Rest easy, you’ve done your job and have done it well. May you be rewarded beyond measure for your commitment to your family, and your faith. We love you.
Immense gratitude to the staff of Bobby’s Hospice for their exemplary care of Buddy and his entire family. This journey was made easier because of your love, support and expertise. Words cannot express the immense gratitude we feel. Additional appreciation for the care received from Parkland Saint John, the Extra Mural Team and the caregivers who became part of our lives.
Resting at Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (506-634-7424), where visitation will be held on Monday, October 28, 2024 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 at 1 pm from St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, 45 Dollard Drive. Interment will take place in St. Augustine’s Cemetery.
For those who wish, remembrances made to Bobby’s Hospice and the Art Kincade Environmental Scholarship from Harbour View High School would be greatly appreciated by the family.
