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Joseph William "Joey" Riley

Joseph William "Joey" Riley obituary

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Spence-Miller Funeral Home - Grove City

2697 Columbus Street

Grove City, Ohio

Joseph Riley Obituary

Riley SPC Joseph "Joey" William Riley, United States Army, age 27, of Grove City. Beloved son of Rodney and Michelle (Ferre) Riley; brother of Cortney (Jason) Riley Duncan; uncle of Hailey Liberty and Ian Lawrence; brother of Justin (Ashley) Riley; uncle of Reed Leighton and Monroe Aileen; also survived by grandmother, Judi (Bob) Ethridge; uncle, Don (Patty) Riley; aunt, Lynn Cremeans; uncle, Scott (Alyssa) Riley; aunt, Tammy (James) Graham; aunt, Marcie (Chip) Handrich; uncle, Frank (Jeri-Jean) Ferre; aunt, Brynn (Brent) Wagner; aunt, Shawna Cogar; uncle, Cliff (Heidi) Ferre; and many other loving cousins and extended family. Riley was preceded in death by grandparents and great grandparents, including WWII Veteran Joseph Scott Riley, and other United States Service members. SPC Riley enlisted in the Army in June 2012; he was assigned to 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, North Carolina in March 2013. His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with campaign star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO medal, Combat Infantryman Badge and Basic Parachutist Badge. Loved by countless others who knew him and even some who did not, Joey was known by his infectious smile. Joey loved time with his nieces and nephews, football, and serving in the Army. His last words to his mom and dad, "Love you guys." Visitation will be held Friday, December 5, 2014 from 1-4 and 6-8 p.m. at The First Baptist Church of Grove City, 3301 Orders Rd., Grove City, where Funeral will be held Saturday, December 6, 2014 at 1 p.m., with Pastor Tom Wright officiating. Interment will follow at Concord Cemetery. Arrangements completed with THE SPENCE-MILLER FUNERAL HOME, Grove City. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.spencemillerfuneralhome.com. Memorial donations may be made in Joey's memory to benefit children in Nicaragua to Memorial Baptist Church, 2435 Eakin Rd., Columbus, Ohio 43204. "Greater love hath no man than this; that a man lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13 KJV

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Columbus Dispatch from Dec. 2 to Dec. 3, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Riley

Not sure what to say?





Ken Gilkey

March 26, 2017

Joey you will always hold memories when you was a child playing with neighbor children and fond memories with then my step daughter Monica when you in in Tanglebrook Sub-division in Grove City.
You gave it all. Memories will always hold dear in my heart forever. God bless you and praying for your family.

Jim Berns

March 25, 2017

To Joey's family. I saw the memorial sign on the highway today. I'm a truck driver and also a Marine. I didn't know Joey. However, I wanted to pay my respects to the family of a hero. I am sorry for your loss. Any one of us who have ever worn a uniform would gladly take his place. Even though I didn't know him, I'm guessing he'd say something similar. I know that doesn't make it any easier but you should know he is loved by people he never even met as are each of you.

May 28, 2015

My deepest sympathy to the family of Spc. Joseph Riley. Our family will always be grateful to him for his service and sacrifice for our country.

Suzanne MacDaniel

March 15, 2015

Dear Riley family,

I know there are no words to say at this time, except how sorry that I am. My thoughts and prayers are with you always. Joseph will never be forgotten.

For you every single soldier
Those who served so honorable
Your life was forever altered
While I'm home safe and free
I stand with grateful admiration
I stand respectful and so proud
I know I'm only a civilian
And I don't even know if it's allowed.

But I salute you; allow me the honor to salute you with permission let me say. Even though I hold no rank know that from my heart my humble gratitude comes from the deepest part. I salute you.
For those missing in action;for those who didn't make it home.
I know you're in God's presence you are not alone.
For every neatly folded flag;for every shattered family
I will do the only thing I know to dignify your memory.

I salute you, allow me the honor to salute you with permission let me say even though I hold no rank know that from my heart my humble gratitude comes from the deepest part.

I salute you.

I Salute You.

Suzanne MacDaniel,A Proud Aunt
SGT. David M.Fisher KIA 12/1/04 Iraq -

Charlie Gili

January 11, 2015

Hello,
We would like to express our deepest condolences and also let the Riley Family and friends know that we will be sending Care Packages to troops in Afghanistan this week and we'll be dedicating several of these to your loved one. Each package will carry the name, photo and the hometown of Joseph W. Riley US Army Specialist. We realize that this is a small tribute, but we do this with all respect and sincerity and we want you to know that it is made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals from across the American youth hockey community. We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of the US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign

Dianne Goble

January 4, 2015

Dear Shelley,
I just heard of the loss of your dear son. I am just so sorry! I know that you must be extremely proud of him, on one hand, and miss him terribly on the other. It is comforting to know that he is now safe in the arms of Jesus. Joey, in fact is so close to Jesus, that he can hear His heartbeat. Imagine the fun he is having with kids up there! One of my students just died. I hope Joey and Dustin have already met! Please know that I am with you in heart!

S. Kronenwetter

December 28, 2014

To the Riley Family, Please accept my deepest condolences in the loss of your loved one and Hero Joseph, and my sincerest gratitude for his service for our country.
God Bless you Spc. Joseph W. Riley...you will not be forgotten.

Petr Kot

December 18, 2014

Úcta tomu, kdo za nás sloužil...

Lynne Neibert

December 8, 2014

Prayer Shawls 4 Fallen Soldiers ([email protected] is an organization with groups throughout the country who work to send handmade prayer shawls and/or lap robes to families who have lost a loved one while serving our country. Members of Trindle Spring Lutheran Church of Mechanicsburg, PA would like to extend our sincere sympathy and to honor your loved one's sacrifice and memory by sending our prayers and comfort through a prayer gift which will be mailed to you. If you are interested, please contact me at [email protected] with the names and addresses of those who would like to receive one and which gift they would like to receive. We will send our gift as soon as possible. Also, if you know of any other families who are grieving the loss of a loved on who died while serving our country, please pass along my e-mail address. May God bless you and comfort you in the days ahead. Sincerely, Lynne

December 7, 2014

R.I.P. Joey, thank you for your service..& your sacrifice..

Michael Dotson

December 7, 2014

My heart goes out to you brother and to your family I am praying for each one go rest on high my brother in arms

Dwayne Bickham,Sr.

December 6, 2014

In God's care rest in peace

Wade, Doris and Andy Dunham

December 6, 2014

Joey played Little League with our son Andy. I remember his freckled face smile! May the Lord bless your family with comfort and peace. Thank you for your sacrifice for our country.

Liz salazar

December 6, 2014

God bless you Joey I didn't know you but having a daughter in the ARMY right now I felt like I knew you thank you for your sacrifices. I gave a hug to your mother and said thanks for your heroism. Rest in peace and we will meet one day.

Nick Amicucci Sr.

December 6, 2014

A furious spark of light, honor, compassion and sacrifice is now gone from all of us. I am the father of a veteran and pour my sorrow, pride and sympathy to Joey's loved ones. His memory will stand tall in those who knew him as he stands tall among the countless who protected the United States of America. Respect ... Peace.

Steve & Trace Ardrey

December 6, 2014

Our prayers are with your family today and forever. Thank you Joey for protecting our country and our freedoms. You will always soar with the highest of angels. God Bless.

Mike & Kim Scott

December 5, 2014

Our hearts are broken for you all. Joey made the ultimate sacrifice for those he loved,his town and his country. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you in the difficult days ahead. We will never forget!

Adam Dixon

December 5, 2014

Dear Riley Family,
My name is Adam Dixon. I am a student at Capital University and received the news that our alumnus Joseph as passed. I am grateful that we have heroes like him today that stand up for freedom and protect our country from terror. We will do our best here at Capital to honor him for his sacrifice.

Karen Stillwell

December 5, 2014

We pray with sadness and heavy hearts that you will all find peace and comfort knowing Joey is a hero to all of us! We the Blue Star families, will forever hold Joey in our hearts! We will never let him or you be forgotten! Gold Bless and keep all of you in his loving arms!
Karen Stillwell
President, Chapter 9
Buckeye Military Moms
Dept. Of Ohio, Treasurer
Blue Star Mothers of America

Kathy Miller

December 5, 2014

An American citizen asking our Heavenly Father to comfort the family of an American Hero

A Held

December 5, 2014

Rest in Peace Soldier, you now have a new set of wings.
Our prayers are with the family and love ones of this American Hero and may you find comfort and peace. This country lost a good man and he will be remembered and honored.

Ron &Amy Held

December 5, 2014

Rest in Peace Soldier, you have a differnt set of wings now. Prayers and peace to the family and love ones of this great American hero. He and his sacrifice will be remembered and honored. God Bless

John Roll

December 5, 2014

Shelly and family -

I'm so sorry to hear of the devastating loss of your son. May you and your family find peace and comfort in your memories of him.

With Sympathy - The Roll Family (neighbors from Irish Hills)

Ken Gilkey

December 5, 2014

I remember Joey well. I lived in Tanglebrook sub-divison many year ago.
God bless him and his family. Praying for you all.

Donna Buchanan

December 4, 2014

Dear Rodney, Shelly and family: We are so sorry for your loss, Joey was a fine young man and a true American Hero. Our thoughts and prayers with you. May your memories give you comfort during this most difficult time.
Donna, Floyd, David and Brad Buchanan

Debra Yun

December 4, 2014

Thank you for your service, May your friends and family find comfort and healing.

Judith Hill

December 4, 2014

to the family of Joey Riley, I too am a military mom and my heart breaks for you. My sons went to school with Joey. Ryan and Stephen Malone. Steve is currently serving in the Army in Italy. Words cannot express my sadness and my gratitude for Joey's sacrifice. You are all in my prayers.

M. Carpenter

December 4, 2014

To the family, friends, and military unit of Spc. Riley, Please, accept my deepest condolences for your loss of "Joey". We will not forget his brave service or ultimate sacrifice to defend freedom and protect our way of life. He is a true American Hero! May he rest in Peace and may you have comfort and healing for your loss.

December 4, 2014

Thank you for your service to our country.
I Pray for the repose of your soul and for your family/friends.

Roger Patrick

December 3, 2014

May God Bless and watch over your family during this time. It is because of selfless individuals like Spec. Joey Riley that the rest of us enjoy the freedoms that we have in this great nation. While my words and those of others cannot fill the void in your life, I want you to know that we in my family are thinking of you. God Bless.

debbie kirk

December 3, 2014

An American hero. Thoughts and prayers to the family.

Paul Herdman Sr.

December 3, 2014

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time of sorrow. May the grace of God comfort you and your family. God Bless.

Darrell Huber Army (Ret.)

December 3, 2014

Rest now Soldier, your duty done. Sending prayers to all of the family from our family.

December 3, 2014

"Tribute Board" ~ for our fallen hero's
by the "Orange Plaza Patriots"

Randy, Robin, Wesley, Ryan & Kevin Lanning

December 3, 2014

We are very sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Marlene Bennett

December 3, 2014

So thanfull for his service and sorry for your loss. Vergal Riley and Kenneth Riley was my uncles and he had a son named Donald Riley. Are we related? they was from Springfield Ohio.

Megan

December 3, 2014

A true american hero! I am so sorry for your loss.The sacrifices made by this brave young man and his family; on behalf of our country, are appreciated more than words can say. My prayers are with you. May the Lord Bless and Keep Joey Always.

Lois Erlandson

December 3, 2014

Jeri-Jean and Frank: Your wonderful family has suffered a great loss and I want you to know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Joey gave the ultimate sacrifice for every single American and for that we are all truly grateful. Lean on each other now for strength and support to help you through this extremely difficult and sad time in your lives.

CHERYL JEFFERSON

December 3, 2014

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SERVING OUR COUNTRY. YOU PAID THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE. MAY GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY

OUR HERO!!!

December 3, 2014

We're praying for the Riley family & friends of this wonderful young man that us left this world way to soon. We will see you again Joey. Our hearts hurt for your parents you left behind, please stay near to them and let them feel your presents & love always. Thank you for your service. What an honor to know you, even if it was just as you were a young child. What a proud young man you grew up to be!!!
Love & prayers,
Bob, Teresa & Kara Smoot

In loving memory of Spc. Joseph "Joey" Riley. Our hero! Gone but not forgotten!

Teresa Smoot

December 3, 2014

Phyllis Sisson

December 3, 2014

Our hearts are broken for you all. We are so very sorry for your loss.. Thank you for you and your Heros ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. We will always remember him and keep your family in our prayers.

Kevin and Phyllis Sisson
Parents of our Fallen Hero
2LT Justin Sisson KIA 3 June 2013

Maria Klemack-McGraw

December 3, 2014

Dear Riley Family,
I never had the honor of meeting your Joey, however, I truly am grateful for his service to our country.
God bless the brave men and women defending our country. God will comfort those who will forever love and mis those who have died defending all of us. Hoey is a tru American Hero and he will be missed by all of us. May the Lord welcome Joey home with open arms. God bless the U.S.A.

December 3, 2014

God Bless this family and Thank you to Joseph Riley. Rest in Peace.

Cindy Kerr

December 3, 2014

Praying for your family. Thank you Joseph Riley for your service.
From a vet's Mom

December 3, 2014

From the parents, families, and fellow brothers and sisters (military) from North Carolina and here. We thank him for what he did to protect us. Prayers go out to all.

Mr.and Mrs. SGT. Ricky Fairchild

December 3, 2014

Our sympathy and condolences.
SPC. Joseph Riley's courage and selfless services to this country shall not go in vain.

jeanie mills

December 3, 2014

The Lord God another beautiful angel Lord be with his family and friends through this difficult time Rest in peace Joey

T James

December 3, 2014

No words can express the heart-felt sorry at the loss of your loved one, Joseph. I am praying for our beloved Heavenly Father to wrap you in His loving arms and give you comfort. With deepest sympathy....

Kathy Snyder

December 3, 2014

God bless and praying for your family

MAJ Jonathan Kovach

December 2, 2014

As a former Capital football player and current Army Officer, it saddened me to hear of Joey's death. Although I never had the pleasure of meeting him, I feel a certain kinship with him. My prayers to you and my heartfelt condolence on your loss.

Debbie and Jesse Hopkins

December 2, 2014

I'm am heartbroken and don't have a clue even what to say. We all loved him and he is the best kid/ young man and has left this world with a huge void!!

Jo

December 1, 2014

To the Riley Family,
Although no one can really know the level of grief you bear, please know that my family, as well as all of Grove City, weeps with you; our hearts are broken for you. We pray that God's immense love will illuminate your hearts and you will be filled with a miraculous peace.

December 1, 2014

Rodney and Shelly- Our deepest sympathy, I did my 20 and being military, this really hits home. Our prayers are with you and your family. David and Son Im Zeirott

December 1, 2014

My sympathy goes out to the Family during your time of grief. May God's loving-kindness comfort you and help you through this difficult time. Psalm 119: 50, 76

Jody Streitenberger

December 1, 2014

A person that departs from this earth never truly leaves, for they are still alive in our hearts and minds, through us, they live on - I am deeply saddened buy the loss of your son, our hometown hero. My heart and soul aches for you. God rest his soul and may he also surround you and your family with love and happy memories.

Danise Spencer

December 1, 2014

Rodney and Michelle: our thoughts and prayers are with your family through this difficult time.

Marc and Danise Spencer
Kyle, Ashley and MaKenzie Spencer

December 1, 2014

Our family is so sorry for your loss. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.

The Kirton Family
Army CPL Brandon Kirton
KIA 5/18/11 - Afghanistan

Carl Roush

November 30, 2014

Rodney,Shelly,Cortney and Justin, Our hearts are broken over the loss of Joey.I remember the great times the we,the Georges and your family had in years past. I remember that Joey and Tim were most always together when we were at church. I hope you know that if there is anything we can do for you,consider it done. We Love you guys and are praying for you all. Carl & Terri Roush

Ed Jones

November 30, 2014

While I never had the privilege to meet Brother Riley, I pledge that Joey's life and service will always be remembered by the SigEp Patriots Project. On Thanksgiving, several friends and I ran in honor and memory of Joey. God bless Joey's family, friends and chapter brothers.

Janet Walker

November 30, 2014

Our heartfelt condolences to the Riley family on your devastating loss. We pray that you find strength from the love of God, family, and friends at this most difficult time.
Peace be with you,
Janet and Jim Walker

November 30, 2014

MY MANE IS PATTY RILEY STAINER. MY DAD WAS RICHARD RILEY.I WORK WITH A JOEY RILEY .I DONT KNOW IF WE ARE RELATE OR NOT.BUT SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.

Brent and Pam Zeirott

November 30, 2014

Rodney Shelly,
We are so sorry for your loss, our prayers and thoughts are with you.

November 29, 2014

Rodney & Shelley:
Our deepest sympathies to you and all of your family on your loss. Henry, Joy, & Allie Miller

Mary Ann Ward

November 29, 2014

Dear Riley Family: We, the parents in Compassionate Friends send you our heartfelt condolences, we know that you are heartbroken by this terrible loss. Compassionate Friends is an international grief support group for parents, grandparents and siblings who have suffered the heartbreaking loss of a child. In Columbus, we meet monthly to support each other in our grief and love of our children. Our meetings are from 7-9 PM on the second Tuesday of each month at Ascension Lutheran Church, 1479 Morse Rd, Columbus, OH 43229. If and when you are ready to do so, please join us; we will welcome you with open arms and love into this wonderful group of parents who share your grief.
~
The Compassionate Friends
Columbus, OH Chapter
(614)882-8986

Christina Nicol

November 29, 2014

To the entire Riley family,
I am so sorry for your devastating loss. Joey was a great kid. I never saw him without a smile on his face. Michelle, you know how much I care about you and your family. You have raised tremendous sons ( and a daughter!). - Chris Nicol (GCHS)

Vicki and Brian Evans

November 29, 2014

Our deepest sympathy to the Riley family. Joey's love and respect for family was only one of his wonderful facets. He always had a smile. His passing is a loss for everyone.

Tanda M

November 29, 2014

TO the family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Your son is a hero! and many appreciate his sacrifice..Thank you sir for your service R.I.P

November 29, 2014

To the Riley Family, you have my deepest sympathy. May God give you the needed strength to endure, during this difficult time (1 Corinthians 10:13.)

ANF - OH

November 28, 2014

shelly-rondey it was a pleasure to know Joey and how much he love you and the Sunday he surprise you at church I cried that day I will never forget my prayers are with you all . hes is a angel now looking over us all Audrey Pfaff

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2697 Columbus Street, Grove City, OH 43123

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