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John Riley Obituary

RILEY, John A., Jr. John A. Riley, Jr., 88, of Newington, beloved father and grandfather, died peacefully Tuesday (February 10, 2009) at Hartford Hospital. He was the husband of the late Dorothy (Morrow) Riley. He was born in Altoona, PA, son of the late John and Hannah (Moore) Riley, and resided in Newington for the past 46 years. John lived his life as an artist which for many of us is only a dream. As both a composer and musician, he began his career as a cellist in the Altoona Symphony. After serving in World War II, he continued his education in music and composition at the University of PA, Eastman School of Music, and Yale University. He spent two years in Paris on a Fulbright scholarship studying composition. He began to experiment with film making before moving to this area to join the Hartford Symphony as a cellist. John was a member for more than 30 years and composed works that included orchestra and chamber music, several of which were performed. He is survived by her children, John B. Riley, of East Hartford, Ann M. Riley and her husband, George J. Coleman, of Wethersfield, Susan F. Riley and her partner, Andrea M. Huskie, of Ithaca, NY, Susan D. Papas and her husband, Michael, of Cyprus; his grandchildren, Audrey S. Coleman, Joseph R. Coleman, Minos Papas. For the past five years, John resided at Cedar Mountain Commons in Newington where he received exceptional care from all of his loving and devoted caregivers. A private Memorial Service will be held at a later date. There are no calling hours. Newington Memorial Funeral Home, 20 Bonair Ave., Newington is serving the family. To share a memory with his family, please visit us at www. newingtonmemorial.com.

Published by Hartford Courant on Feb. 13, 2009.
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I had the pleasure of performing a fabulous song cycle of Johns many years ago in Hartford, where he also played cello in the accompanying quartet. A lovely gentleman and fine musician!! Thomas Silverbörg

Thomas Silverbörg

Work

October 23, 2022

To family & friends - I was a student of Mr. Riley's at CCSC (now CCSU) in the late 1970's. I saw him perform at Welte Hall on several occasions and loved his passion for the music. I am sorry for your loss.

Michael Vitelli

March 3, 2009

My memories of your father go back almost 40 years -- we were cello colleague in the Hartford Symphony. I especially remember trips to Bermuda with the Hartford Chamber Orchestra where your Dad served as a gentle, kind mentor to younger musicians. I will remember him fondly and keep him in my prayers.

Andrea Graffam

February 15, 2009

Ann and Family,
We are so sorry for the loss of your father and Audrey and Joseph's grandfather. Please know you are in our thoughts.
Sincerely,
The Darrell Family

Jill Darrell

February 13, 2009

Ann,
My deepest sympathy to you and your family on your great loss. I believe nothing beautiful ever really dies it goes to sleep and returns to us. You will forever have sad and joyful memories to sustain you. You were blessed to have him as long as you did. I know words at a time of loss cannot replace what you feel, but know my thoughts are with you and your family. Take time to greive and your healing will be all the sweeter. God Bless

Pat Berdnick

February 13, 2009

With deepest sympathy during your time of mourning.

Newington Memorial Funeral Home

February 13, 2009

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