Mary Warren Riley

1925 - 2023

Mary Warren Riley
January 24, 1925 - March 15, 2023
Columbia, South Carolina - Mary Warren Riley, 98, of Columbia, died peacefully in her home on Wednesday, March 15, 2023, surrounded by her family. Mary was born January 24, 1925, in Allendale, SC, a daughter of the late Wade and Sadie Hammond Warren. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 65 years, L'Artigue Riley; three sisters, Saranne Bryan, Georgia Stone, and Anne Gustin, as well as her nieces, Sally Stone and Flora Riley Wilson.
She is survived by her three daughters, Saranne Downing (Bobby), Harriet Watkins (Rick), Mimi Ross (Jesse); grandchildren, Riley Downing (Missy), Mary Huber (Matt), Sara Lafler (Eric), Taylor Watkins, Alston Badger, McKain Badger, Harrison Ross, William Ross, and Christopher Ross; five great grandchildren, Sadie and Bobby Downing, Reagan Huber, Hall Lafler, and Ella Hart. She also leaves behind her special nieces and their families, whom she adored.
Mary was a graduate of Allendale High School where she received many honors and attended Furman University where she was the president of her sophomore class. Mary was an active member of St. Martin's-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church, Junior League of Columba, Columbia Garden Club, Town and Country Garden Club, Forest Lake Country Club, and the Columbia Bridge Club.
Mary had an unforgettable spirit, never meeting a stranger and always thinking of others with the kind gesture of a card, a phone call or something sweet from her kitchen. Her zest for life was filled with the love of family, friends, and the University of South Carolina Gamecocks! She loved spending time at Land's End at their family cottage. Mary could be seen throwing her own cast net while her husband headed her shrimp and then prepared a tableful of fresh seafood. Mary's sweet smile and kind heart always made you feel special, because to her, you were!
She was extremely independent, never wanting to burden anyone. Her devoted neighbors, Patricia and Charlie Davis, Deedi Faulks, and Mitzie Trotter, were instrumental in allowing her to remain at home. They were her earth angels and her family is forever grateful of their love and attention. Lastly, she loved her weekly Saturday, 'Card Girls". They were so important in her life and will remain important in her family's life.
The memorial service for Mrs. Riley will be held at 1 o'clock on Thursday, March 23rd, at St. Martin's-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church, 5220 Clemson Avenue, Columbia, SC. The family will receive friends and host a reception following the service in the church parish hall.
Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to St. Martin's-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church, Swallow Savannah Cemetery, c/o Swallow Savannah Methodist Church, 425 Walnut St W, Allendale, SC 29810 or the charity of your choice.
Memories and condolences may be shared at ShivesFuneralHome.com.