Riley Howell

Riley Howell obituary, Waynesville, NC

Riley Howell

Riley Howell Obituary

Visit the Legacy Remembers website to view the full obituary.
Riley Howell

Waynesville - Waynesville, On Tuesday, April 30, 2019, Riley Carl Howell's life was tragically cut short on the Campus of UNC-Charlotte. He was 21.

A native of Haywood County he was a son of Thomas Edward Howell, Jr. and Natalie Marie Henry-Howell. Riley was preceded in death by his grandfather, Dr. Thomas E. "Ted" Howell, Sr. He attended Tuscola High School and graduated from T. C. Roberson High School. Riley attended A-B Technical College and was currently a junior at UNC-Charlotte. Riley was an adventurous guy who loved the outdoors, whether that was kayaking through inlets on the ocean, canoeing down cold mountain rivers, or screaming with excitement as he tried to do a front flip off the rope swing at Fontana Lake. His home was a place he cherished for the same reason. The ponds, tall trees and mountains that he was surrounded by was where he could run with all the dogs, Jake, Dahlia, Delta, Bella, Jack, Cally, Sally, Zinia, Gus, or where he would have lightsaber fights in the yard with his 14-year old brother Teddy. He had his own unique and close relationships with each sibling, family member and friend, that reflected his deep-seated bear-hug love. On top of the passion he had for life and all living things, he valued being self-taught, whether that was in regard to learning about cars, cooking, weight lifting and fitness, Looney Tunes, plants and animals, or anything Star Wars and superhero related. He's the only person we know who would read his entire car manual - for fun! He had a wonderful sense of humor, with his own quirks, cracking jokes all day, and making anyone feel better no matter the circumstances. He had several part-time jobs throughout his life, including working at the Corner Kitchen, where he could fulfill his love of food; B.B. Barnes, where he could fulfill his love of all things living and growing, and his job at UNCC, where he worked with Housing to keep other students safe. He sought out hard work and enjoyed hands-on work. Even though he sometimes burned it, he loved making fried chicken in a cast iron skillet and trying out new recipes to make for his friends and family. As much as he loved to cook, he loved to eat even more, especially Albie, Jema, Nan, and Jean's food. He could eat an entire extra-large pizza and be hungry enough to polish off everyone else's leftovers, and still somehow kept up that Thor physique.

In addition to Riley's parents, he is survived by his two sisters, Iris Kilmer Howell and Juliet Pearl Howell, of the home; a brother, Miles Edward "Teddy" Howell, of the home; maternal grandparents, Mary Hill Henry, of Edneyville and Robert Lee Henry, of Maggie Valley; paternal grandparents, Nancy Howell Blevins and her husband, David Coker Blevins, of Waynesville; Riley's girlfriend and soulmate, Lauren Ashleigh Westmoreland and her parents, Kevin Paul Westmoreland and Amy Lynn Westmoreland and her brother, Matthew Ryan Westmoreland, all of Asheville; numerous uncles, aunts and cousins.

A memorial service will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 5, 2019 in the Stuart Auditorium, Lake Junaluska with Reverend Dr. Robert M. Blackburn officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 4, 2019 in the Wells Events & Reception Center. "May the 4th be with you".

The family is profoundly moved by the outpouring of love and support shown by our friends, family, community and people around the country we have never even met. Riley died the way he lived, putting others first. Our hope is that his example resonates with everyone. We hope others will, if ever the need arises, answer the call to be selfless and do the right thing without hesitation. We hope his example of loving, living large, being kind always and finding laughter in the little things will be remembered as Riley's gift to us all.

Riley liked to take care of people, animals, and the planet. Memorials in his name may be made to any of the following: Southern Highlands Appalachian Conservancy at Appalachian.org; Red Cross at redcross.org.; Wildlife Warriors (Steve Irwin's foundation) at WildlifeWarriors.org.au; March for Our Lives at marchforourlives.com or Sarge's Animal Rescue Foundation at Sargeanimals.org.

The care of Riley has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Homes and an online memorial register is available at "Obituaries" at www.wellsfuneralhome.com

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

Sign Riley Howell's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

April 27, 2024

Suzanne Simnick Thurman posted to the memorial.

April 27, 2023

Claudia posted to the memorial.

April 27, 2023

Suzanne Simnick Thurman posted to the memorial.

Suzanne Simnick Thurman

April 27, 2024

May you continue to live forever in the loving arms of the Prince Of Peace, my Hero.
Suzanne
XOXO

Claudia

April 27, 2023

Thomas, I hope you and your family are healing.

Suzanne Simnick Thurman

April 27, 2023

Your courageous Soul lives on, my Hero.
Rest well in the loving arms of Jesus.
XOXO

Emily Paterson

April 27, 2022

Love to Riley's family and all those impacted by the tragedy.

Charles Scotton

May 2, 2021

No greater love is this than giving up your life for your friends. Riley did just that and he is a hero in the truest sense.

Teresa Baker

April 27, 2021

Thomas and Natalie, I’m still stunned by Riley’s tragic and heroic death. Anniversaries can be hard reminder of loss. I wanted you to know that you and your family are being lifted up in prayer.

John Trainor

March 20, 2021

When I first saw the news story of what happened, what captured my attention most was the ultimate sacrifice for others this young man made -- I wanted to know more about him and in seeing the various pictures in the news was deeply impressed at the love and warmth radiating from his countenance. I kept these photos on a thumb drive and in running across them again yesterday, was touched all over again. My eyes have welled up several times, so can only imagine what his loved ones feel. Fitting the sign his brother Teddy posted on his brother's bedroom chair, "Reserved for a hero." I noticed that the official explaining what happened said, in seeing no place to run or hide, Riley did thus and so -- I thought to myself, no, if Riley had seen a location to run to and hide, he would still have made this sacrifice for others -- it wasn't just because he had no other choice. In finding pictures of Riley Howell on my computer again, the words of Jesus flashed in my mind, "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."

Maureen Scalia

March 5, 2020

Thank you for raising such a fine young man and condolences on your unimaginable loss. I was at a story convention where Donald Davis shared your son's touching story. I welled up with tears and everyone in the room was deeply affected. I'm glad his story will continue to live on this way. God Bless.

Viken Yanbestian

February 24, 2020

We are from Quebec, Canada. My 11 year old son asked me who I think he should choose as a hero for his class oral presentation. i spoke about Riley and my son wanted to talk about him. He did his oral today and just wanted to let you all know his name is not forgotten and a few more kids will talk about what a wonderful and brave person Riley was.
God bless him.

Russell Campbell

July 9, 2019

Thank you for your gift of your son to this world. I'm extremely sorry that his life was taken senselessly. I pray that you will get as much healing as possible in this world.

I wrote a tribute to him on the Facebook page that I run and I hope you will read it and that it will bring you a little comfort and perhaps a smile.

https://www.facebook.com/353028255078518/posts/814370905610915?s=811375466&sfns=mo

Suzanne Simnick Thurman

June 4, 2019

You will always be my Hero.
God bless your Courageous Soul.
XOXO

Aaron M

June 4, 2019

Dear Howell Family,
I live in Canada and was moved to write to you when I read about your son Riley. It may seem a bit odd to receive a condolence message from a stranger, but I was so very touched by Riley's act of bravery and by the stories of his life that were shared with us on the news.

May you be uplifted over time, knowing that so many people care and celebrate his life with you.

Sincerely, Aaron

Sara Mertz

May 31, 2019

We are wishing Riley, his family and friends PEACE.

Stacey Davis

May 11, 2019

I did not know Riley, but he will forever be a hero in my heart. i am truly sorry for the loss of this precious young man. My prayers are with his family and friends as they face the days ahead. God bless you

Jeffrey Bryan

May 9, 2019

You will always be remembered for being a hero and for your bright smile.

James Vinson

May 9, 2019

Riley was a true hero who makes me proud to be a resident of Haywood County. His selfless act will never be forgotten. Prayers for his family.

Francie Nazloo

May 9, 2019

Goosebumps!!! UNCC is my hometown area (20 minutes away). It has strongest community. My father used to be professor for 35 years. My brother is alumni. I worked there for 5 summers while I was student in other college (CPCC & RIT). Many UNCC students took ASL classes at CPCC Cato campus imcluded other campus. Riley was brave, sure we all missed him. We always will remember him to save others live.I am Deaf and fluent in ASL. I love you in ASL.
Francie Nazloo from Mint Hill (Charlotte).

Karun Pran

May 9, 2019

You are a Hero, Sorry for your loss

Diane Dickenson

May 8, 2019

I'm so sorry for your loss

Jez Howell

May 8, 2019

What an amazing thing to do and what a fine example of a human being. Howells across the world send our love and condolences to his family. As my football team would say, You'll Never Walk Alone, Riley.

David Gillis

May 8, 2019

Thank you for raising a remarkable young man. Our prayers are with you.

Carol Foster

May 7, 2019

I've lost 2 adult sons, one ten yrs ago, one two years ago. My heart truly breaks for every parent who goes through this loss. May God,family, friends + others help you through your loss. So saddened about this. Your Riley was a wonderful human being.
San Diego, Calif. Artist/Oil Painter Carol Foster

Claudia

May 7, 2019

Thomas, I just got the connection that Riley was your son. My heart goes out to you, his mother and siblings, and all who loved him. I'm so sorry this happened.
A big hug to you.....
Claudia (from Mission ED)

Genevieve Lane

May 7, 2019

Wishing you peace and healing in the days ahead. A remarkable human being has gone, but his legacy continues.

Joanna Gandiza

May 7, 2019

Riley was and is a TRUE hero and will be remembered with love and appreciation forever, even by those of us who did not have the great pleasure and honor of knowing him. He is undoubtedly being welcomed into heaven with great love. Thoughts, prayers and hugs to his family and friends, and everyone on campus. Riley and all of you will be in our hearts always.

Mary Jognson

May 7, 2019

I am in awe of your son. I only hope I would be as brave as he. I'm so sorry for your incredible loss and ours. Heaven holds a special place for him. You have my sympathy and prayers.

P Vanston

May 7, 2019

My prayers are with you. May God send you peace and consolation.

r scott corbin

May 7, 2019

May Gods grace and comfort be with you. I have a son who is a student at UNC-C. He wasnt on campus that evening. He is, however, alive and well because of the courage and selflessness of your boy, Riley Howell. Thank you. Words cannot express how sad this loss feels and how beautiful the stories are of your brave son. May the Lord bless you and keep you.

Joel Beal

May 7, 2019

A very rare, great example.

Troy Conrod

May 7, 2019

Reading his obituary about his life made me smile. I'm sure many people would have loved to have known him. My deepest sympathy to your whole family. May his spirit of living to the fullest continue with your family.

Steve & Jennifer Steele

May 7, 2019

To Riley's family & friends, We don't know you or Riley but have certainly read of his heroism. People don't make a choice like he did without previously living out a daily walk of intentionality, care for others and courage to do the right thing. Our guess is that you were already immensely proud of him and that even though the circumstance was off the radar, his final choice was in line with the life he lived. Be encouraged: For most, it takes decades to make the amazing impact that Riley made in seconds. Riley's influence has gone far and wide & will far outlast the evil perpetrated against him & his peers. Still, our hearts are broken for you; with you. We pray that Christ will give you all the peace which passes all understanding. Much heartfelt love & prayer. Steve & Jennifer, Raleigh, NC

Deb Bennett

May 7, 2019

I've finally taken the time to sit down and read about the shooting at UNC last week. Busy doing chores, housework, cooking, I barely caught the news of another school shooting when it happened, and I remember thinking, "well, I'm glad the fatalities were small." Tonight, I know why there were so very many lives saved in that classroom at UNC; Riley Howell, just a youngster with so much potential for a rich, happy life, gave it his all to protect the others...to protect and keep safe the people he shared that space with that afternoon. Oh, Riley - I can see you are as wonderful as your family and friends say you are! I am so, so sad that you are gone and my heart aches and breaks for you mom and dad and brother and sisters, and Lauren and her family. We won't forget you, we will tell your story to our friends and neighbors and children and grandchildren. Hopefully, there will be a day when heroism such as yours will no longer be needed in our classrooms and the places we gather.

Bryan

May 7, 2019

I don't know this young hero but my heart aches that he is gone. The world is less well off with his passing. Men like him, people like him help us remember what good looks like. I will try to remember him and his sacrifice as I grow old, and hug my sons just a bit tighter in his honor. Blessings to you..his family and I hope you can take some comfort in knowing he changed the lives of many people in a most honorable way that day. That is a life well lived.

L Rae

May 6, 2019

My deepest condolences to the family for the loss of your dear one.
Please take comfort from your fond memories and the
promise found at Isaiah 33:25.

Alan Bowers

May 6, 2019

Greater love hath no man, that he lay down his life for his friends.

May 6, 2019

May God be with and watch over your family during this trying time. Thank you for your great sacrifice of love, you saved many of your peers.

May 6, 2019

I am deeply sorry for your loss. May you continue to feel comforted by the loving support of your family and friends and also from God Almighty who will give you the strength to get through these difficult times. Psalms 9 : 9 - 10

May 6, 2019

I DID NOT KNOW THIS YOUNG MAN, BUT HE IS TO BE REMEMBERED FOR HIS SACRIFICE AND BRAVERY. HE LEAPT INTO ACTION TO TRY TO DISARM A MADMAN BENT ON HURTING PEOPLE, AND SAVED MANY LIVES WITH HIS ACTIONS. HE IS A HERO AND I HOPE HE IS REMEMBERED AS SUCH FOREVER. WE ARE PRAYING FOR THE PEACE AND COMFORT OF HIS FAMILY.

Debra Kadoves

May 6, 2019

I am so sorry for the loss of your brave and heroic son. It takes a special and brave person to put their life in danger for others. You raised a person most hope they can be in times of trouble. I am asking God to bring you comfort in the days and years to come. With Kindest thoughts of healing, I remain.

Proud Dad Be Strong

May 6, 2019

My heart goes out to the family i lost my son and you never get over that. But just know that they are in a better place no one should out live their kids. He was a brave man to do what he did and died saving others so be proud. One day we will see our sons again.

Pam Sheppard

May 6, 2019

Please accept my condolences for your loss. The world needs more Riley Howells. Please let all your wonderful memories help you thru this very difficult time.

Pam Sheppard

May 6, 2019

Please accept my condolences for your loss. The world needs more Riley Howells. Please let all the wonderful memories help you during this very difficult time.

May 6, 2019

Thoughts and prayers are sent your way,So courageous.. God has Riley in his book of life and shortly will bring him back to the you all,God our heavenly father promised.

May 5, 2019

Please accept our sincere condolences for the loss of your loved one.
May the God who binds up the broken hearted and comforts all who mourn sustain your family during this difficult time and give you the strength to endure. Isaiah 61:1,2
PDM

Janet Thompson

May 5, 2019

I am proud to know that people like Riley were in this world. I don't know him personally, but I am so proud of him, and it was unfortunate the way he died, but the goodness in his heart lives on in those of us who honor him.

May 5, 2019

I am so very sorry for your loss. Riley will never be forgotten!

david pagenhardt

May 5, 2019

Prayers for the family .

Leon and Susan Vinson

May 5, 2019

Deepest sympathies from our family to yours. There is an extra star shining brightly in the sky at night that mirrors the brightness of your Riley. Strength and courage for all of you through the passage of loss.

Stephen Bailey

May 5, 2019

I want to say don't know your son or family but want to say I am so sorry for the loss of your brave and heroic son takes a special and brave person to put your life in danger for others to live praying for your family will never forget what he did on that tragic day hope the lord and your community brings you peace and comfort in the days and years to come stay strong

Karen Mullins

May 5, 2019

Nancy..Holding all of You. You raised an amazing Family and they have passed it along to there's. Love Ya Karen Mullins

Byron Davis

May 5, 2019

Thomas, Natalie and family.
I have read thousands of comments from complete strangers over the last several days that summed up Riley so perfectly. But yet, here I sit speechless and short of words. It was an honor to have known Riley for the young man who he really was. One of the greatest kids that I had the opportunity to be around. I had the honor to be his coach for several years and he would always smile when I was trying to make him be serious (which would aggravate me to death). There was so many times that he would eat my food from the concession stand before I got the first bite but I wouldnt have wanted it any other way. Watching Riley and Jordan grow up together playing ball is something that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Be proud of the man he became because when everyone else sees a hero, I see Riley! The blond haired kid that done everything that I asked from him and more. I loved your son as my own and Im so sorry for your loss.

Tina Prete

May 5, 2019

How sad to lose a son, grandson , brother and friend . How proud to know he was an amazing man that cared for his fellow man . A young man taken too soon that could have changed our world forever. He has changed our world now , and made a lasting impact . God bless his parents for raising such an amazing young man . Our thoughts and prayers are with you. You have made an amazing sacrifice for the greater good. Like our Lord .

Lt Col (Dr) Nelson Smith

May 5, 2019

I cannot imagine the pain of losing your son, but be comforted to know he was truly a hero. The word is much overused, but Riley personifies it. He saved many lives by his selfless action and deserves every military honor. None of us know how we would act in a similar situation and his courage was extraordinary. God bless Riley and your family.

Robert Colvin

May 5, 2019

May 5, 2019

Not many people actually find their mission in life. Riley's was forced upon him in a split second. He did what he was taught to do by, without a doubt, great rearing. May this family be honored and consoled at this trying time. God's grace be with you.

Donna Gabriel

May 5, 2019

From our family to yours we send our Deepest Sympathy for your dearly beloved Riley Howell.
May the peace and love of God blanket you during this time of sorrow and in this season. We are praying and know that the Lord almighty will be with you emotionally, physically, mentally. Riley is a Hero and just remember, Jesus is right next to you.
Matthew 5:4 God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted(NLT)
Love in Christ,
Donna and Gabriel
Wilmington, NC

May 5, 2019

You raised an amazing son. This world needs more people like Riley. Please accept my sincere sympathy for your loss.

Christine Carlson

May 5, 2019

I didn't know your son personally. But his heroism has made him well known. You should be so proud of him. I wish the world had more like him. May he rest in peace. My condolences to your family.

May 5, 2019

Another good young person gone way too soon. Thank you for being so strong & so protective of others . So sorry
Rest In Peace Riley. You will not be forgotten

Suzanne Thurman

May 5, 2019

He will live forever in the hearts of his Loved Ones.
And he will forever be our Hero.
God bless your Courageous Soul, Riley.
Suzanne XOXO

Tracy

May 5, 2019

Sending heartfelt condolences to Riley's family and friends. I am so very sorry.

Mike KING

May 4, 2019

I think Riley was probably like one of those guys on the airliner on 9/11 that inspired two other guys to charge the cockpit with him that saved the Pentagon.

May 4, 2019

Evil persists when good people do nothing ....
With a warrior heart your son stopped evil that day and for this he will rejoice in Valhalla. My son proudly wears the uniform and goes to meet evil where it begins. But we need the warriors here to defend the evil at home. I'm sorry it cost his life but I have a feeling he would do it the same way again. May God bless your family with the strength to persevere and share his legacy of courage forever.

Sarah Campbell

May 4, 2019

To say I am sorry for your loss is of such little comfort for your heart. Please just know your tragedies are not mere numbers or statistics. You are names and faces.

May 4, 2019

You are a true hero and angel! Thank you for protecting and defending us all. Prayers and love to your family. Rest in God's Perfect Peace.

Jane Krieser

May 4, 2019

I am moved to tears reading of your wonderful son, what an amazing, beautiful soul, I wish I had known him. The world was a better place with him in it and such a loss is hard to comprehend - sending love, blessings and peace to all Riley's family and friends.

Tony Jakusovas

May 4, 2019

Riley, you are one of the few real hero's and an inspiration to many. Condolences to your family, I know they must be very proud of you.

Felina Erse

May 4, 2019

I did not know Riley Howell, but I feel a great loss for a family who now must carry on with life. God Bless you Mr. Howell

Glenda Sanderson

May 4, 2019

To the family and friends of Riley,
Please accept my sincere condolence for your loss. I did not know Riley but worked with his father, Thomas, in the ER at Mission. Through this horrific event, I learned of Riley and his heroism. I also learned how amazing he was and loved life. I pray to God for peace, understanding and comfort for each of his family members and friends.
Glenda Sanderson

Laurie Frey-Baquedano

May 4, 2019

I have been touched by the actions of Riley and have tears in my eyes. What a WONDERFUL SON! This is such a tragedy, and I wanted to add my condolences here to the family.

I live in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico, but I have watched videos and read articles that have been posted about Riley. I am praying that the Lord gives everyone strength. This is a very sad weekend for so many people who knew Riley.

John Love

May 4, 2019

My sincere sympathy to all who knew and loved this selfless young man. Even in death, he has given everyone who knew him as well as those of us who did not, a reason to be proud of him.

Tina and Jim Adams

May 4, 2019

Love and prayers to your family!

Becky Brooks

May 4, 2019

This is such a hard thing! I can't imagine the sorrow in your hearts! He had to be an amazing giving and loving person. He showed who he was in the heart by what he did! He laid down his life for his friends! May God bless and comfort all of you with his love! Riley apparently knew that love well!

Marian Furlough

May 4, 2019

My sincere sympathy go out to the family and friends. God Bless all of you.

May 4, 2019

The Pindur Family Greg, Teresa, Cassidy. Kaitlyn, Emma and Ella express our deepest condolences.

Eunice Stewart

May 4, 2019

A brave young man lost his earthly life saving others. It is hard to understand God's purpose at a time such as this when it simply doesn't seem fair to those left behind to mourn him. My condolences to all the souls suffering from this tragedy of yet another senseless shooting. Riley will continue to be loved by many forever and will never be forgotten.

Vicki Osbon

May 4, 2019

Prayers for this Family.Bless you all in the weeks ahead .

Theresa Buchanan

May 4, 2019

I am so truly sorry for your loss. He sounds like an amazing young man. Know that even though he is no longer here, he will always be you as you carry him in your heart and memories. He will never be far from you.

Please know you have my sincerest heartfelt condolences. As a mother, I can not fathom the loss your family feels. May God wrap you in his loving embrace.

Brian Gowan

May 4, 2019

In tragedy, Riley shows that good will always triumph over the truly evil. Thank you goes out to his family for raising such a fine young man. Difficult as this loss is, I am sure Riley would do the same thing over and over again. I can't imagine the loss you must feel, but be comforted in the fact that he protected others In away that not many might do.
Sincerely,
Brian from Wisconsin

Martha

May 4, 2019

My prayers go out to The Howell family and the Westmoreland family and all his family and friends.

Riley is a true hero!

Tom Atkinson

May 4, 2019

A young man we will never forget! God Bless Him!

May 4, 2019

Dear Howell Family,
An amazing son! l am so sorry. All I can offer is my work with #Neveragain.
Margaret
Weymouth, MA

Sheryl

May 4, 2019

I am so sorry for your loss and can only imagine the pain your family is feeling. I am praying for you all to find peace and joy in your memories.

Noel Hill

May 4, 2019

We stand with you as you mourn the loss of your heroic son. I am grateful for his bravery and selfless sacrifice. He paid the ultimate price so that my child, my friends' children, and my coworker can continue walking their academic paths at UNC Charlotte. My heart is broken for you and Riley and I will continue praying for peace of mind to be delivered to you.
#ninernation #ninerstrong

LT Stephen Kramer RET, Vice President

May 4, 2019

It is little consolation, but the Greater Cincinnati Police Museum's Memorial Committee acknowledges that had this occurred in the Greater Cincinnati area, Mr. Howell would have been immediately inducted into our law enforcement memorial having in every way performed the law enforcement function of The People, unique to the United States of America. God's eternal light surely shines upon him.

Greater Cincinnati Police Historical Society

May 4, 2019

Hearing about your loved one , Riley, brought chills throughout my entire body. Such an amazing soul that was loved and loved deeply. What a smile! I thank God that he was born.
So sorry for your loss, I cant imagine.

Linda, Texas

Eli and family S

May 4, 2019

We are so sorry for the loss of your precious son Riley.
He is a true Hero who will be remembered for his bravery and for being a wonderful person.
You are in our prayers .

D Sherman

May 4, 2019

May the memories bring a smile to your face and warm your heart during this sad time. God Bless.

Darlene stewart

May 4, 2019

May the memories bring a smile to your face and warm your heart during this sad time. God Bless.

Andrea Counts

May 4, 2019

Your son and his actions on that horrible day will live forever in the lives he touched along the way. God bless your family and Riley's friends. I pray that all of you will find the strength to endure the days to come.

Sara Ting

May 4, 2019

My heartfelt condolences to you and your family for this great loss. You raised an extraordinary human being and we were blessed to have him for a short time. I hope his sacrifice inspires us to acts of selflessness. Sara Ting

Garry Bolin

May 4, 2019

My hart breaks for your loss. What a tribute Riley was to love, sacrifice, and courage. May God bless you openly.

Charles Tabb

May 4, 2019

I did not know this fine young man, but I am certain those who did are not surprised by his selfless heroism. I am just as certain he will be sorely missed by his family, friends, and acquaintances. Whatever your faith, you surely would agree with the statement, Greater love hath no man than to lay down his life for another. I pray for comfort for those who knew Riley. He was a true hero. To his parents, know in your profound grief you raised a young man who is an example for us all.

Garry Bolin

May 4, 2019

My heart breaks for your loss. What a tribute Riley displayed to love, sacrifice, and courage. May God bless you openly.

Mary Horrell

May 3, 2019

My deepest sympathy in the loss of this wonderful and brave young man! What a courageous thing to do! Our prayers are with you!

Carmen C

May 3, 2019

Riley. A gentle and strong soul. A beautiful flower. RIP.
Blossoms are scattered by the wind, and the wind cares not... Blossoms of the heart
no wind can touch.
Yoshida Kendo

Jane Wagman

May 3, 2019

I hope you are able to take some small comfort in knowing that Riley died a hero. May his memory be a blessing to all that knew and loved him.

May 3, 2019

All the way from Seattle, WA, my condolences. I see my son in his face and his actions. All our love, people care and we're so appreciative of your hero.

AR and family xoxo

Sandy Price

May 3, 2019

In memory of a true hero! Riley your country is proud that you laid your life to save the lives of so many people! We are praying for your family and friends!
Sandy and Anthony

Elizabeth Curtis

May 3, 2019

I am so sorry for your loss. I can't begin to imagine the pain you may be going through. I did not know Riley but he sounds like a great young man. You should be extremely proud of him. Prayers for your family.

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Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

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The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

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Ways to honor Riley Howell's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

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How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

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Sign Riley Howell's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

April 27, 2024

Suzanne Simnick Thurman posted to the memorial.

April 27, 2023

Claudia posted to the memorial.

April 27, 2023

Suzanne Simnick Thurman posted to the memorial.