Riley Warren Obituary

Riley Anne Warren Resident of Pleasant Hill Riley was born in Sacramento, California on May 13, 1962. She attended Thomas Jefferson Grammar School, and graduated from St. Mary's Grammar School, St. Francis High School, and the University of California, Los Angeles (Art History Major). Riley's career was in advertising. In 1986, she began work at Chiat/Day Advertising (who introduced the Apple computer in the famous "1984" Super Bowl ad). When her company acquired Anderson & Lembke, in 1989, Riley rose to the position of Operations Director. In 1999 Riley was one of the founding eleven members of Eleven, Inc. a San Francisco advertising firm. She was Director of Operations until her retirement in 2005. Riley was preceded in death by her twin brothers and her father, Harry Warren. She is survived by her son, Cameron, her former husband, Richard Shearer, her mother, Phyllis Warren, her brothers Mark (Janet), Phil (Elaine), and Tim (Sue). Riley's nieces and nephews and grand nieces and nephews are too numerous to name! Additionally, Riley is survived by her posse of friends in Pleasant Hill and the nearby communities. Their fierce strength, care and support surrounded Riley and give witness, form and example to the meaning of the word love. A final debt is owed Dr. Matthew Sirott and the staff at Diablo Valley Oncology whose love, human touch and healing skills kept her disease at bay for almost two decades. Matthew Sirott has been an honorary member of Riley's family for over 17 years. Riley was truly the "mayor" of that organization giving Dr. Sirott fashion tips, and knowing the nurses and infusion staff and their childrens' names. Cancer never defeated Riley. She crashed through roadblocks and setbacks and never lost her outrageous humor and razor wit. She was strong, and happy and without pain right to the final act. The doctors at Stanford were dazzled by her persistence and strength. And she does indeed set the bar high for what it means to live fully and embrace the world around you. She defines what it means to be a woman of strength and poise and character. Riley's strong heart finally rested on the evening of July 23. Surrounded by family she went forward to her next adventure. Though separated by death, we will never be apart. Riley Anne's life will be celebrated in a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Ignatius Church, 3235 Arden Way, Sacramento, California on September 14th, 2013 at 10:00 AM with a reception immediately following in the Parish Hall. Donations in her name can be made to Cancer Support Community in Walnut Creek (www.cancersupportcommunity.net) or KQED public Broadcasting (www.kqed.org/donate/gateway.jsp). Finally, a reader of epic proportion (300 + books in the last 14 months), as was her wish, Riley's corneas were donated to the California Transplant Donor Network. Fortunate indeed will be the person who sees the world through her eyes.

Published by Contra Costa Times on Jul. 27, 2013.
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Memories and Condolences
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I had the opportunity to know Riley in high school and later as an adult. Her 40th birthday party was epic! I will miss her wit on FB, and the occasional breakfasts 'halfway'. Miss you Riley.

Katie Hesse

September 5, 2013

Although we rarely communicated, I am comforted knowing that nevertheless you were in my daily prayers for the last 20+ years. You were always a marvel of a person. Glad to be part of the legion of your admirers. Pray for us, now.

Florence Kirkwood

August 16, 2013

R.I.P.

July 29, 2013

I met Riley when she hired me at Anderson + Lembke in 1998 and we remained friends all these years. She was a great friend and a simply wonderful person. She was strong in the face of adversity, and always retained her great spirit and quick wit, I will never forget her.

Dear Riley, I love you more than words can tell. See you on the other side, doll!

Sending love and prayers to her family.

Patricia and Chip Carberry-Harris

July 29, 2013

When I knew her in High School. Riley was always a bright light. She continued in that vein for the rest of her life. She fought a long tough battle against a terrible disease. She is a fine example of a fighter who did not let her disease define her. I am so sorry for her loss and my heart goes out to her family and friends. She was a beautiful light, full of positive spirit, which will continue to always burn brightly.

Laurie Shreffler (Gergen)

July 28, 2013

I cannot express the loss that I feel. Riley was a force of nature. She lit up the room with her smile and filled it with laughter with her sharp wit. My condolences to Cameron, Phyllis, and her brothers. My heart goes out to you all.

Laura O'Donnell Trimmer

July 27, 2013

Oh Riley, I am so sad to learn of your passing. I remember the day that you told me you were diagnosed with breast cancer, our boys were in 2nd grade. You are a woman of grace, strength and divine wit. Cameron, we send our love and support.

Theresa Reynolds

July 27, 2013

High Shool laughter, High School laughter and yes more High School laughter. Riley try and not to take over Heaven to quickly!!!!!

Kevin Courtney

July 27, 2013

High School laughter, High School Laughter, and yes more High School laughter. Riley try and not to take over Heaven to fast!!!!!!!

Kevin Courtney

July 27, 2013

Riley will be missed by all who knew her. I will always remember the day we walked home together from SFHS.
I pray for peace and comfort for the entire Warren family and all Riley's friends. Sincerely, Kathleen Halvorson

Kathleen Halvorson

July 27, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Annette Cippola

July 27, 2013

Prayers for Riley and her peace now. Prayers for the Warren clan as they grieve their loss of her presence and remember the joy Riley brought to this world!

Jan Millner

July 27, 2013

Valentina Glaviano

July 27, 2013

My condolences to all the family and friends, who shared their lives with this amazing, courageous woman.I never met her, but my friend, Nicole sibley, has told me so much about her. May your memories of her bring peace to all.

Irene Juarez

July 27, 2013

Praying for your family...

Marianne Pita Esquer

July 27, 2013

Riley, St. Francis High School Class of '80 was graced and enhanced with your presence. My thoughts and prayers are with your family and you.

Mary (Merz) McShan

July 27, 2013

I was sadden to see this. I grew up with Riley and will remember her in prayer.

Renee LAPACHET

July 27, 2013

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