DAVID V. RILE

DAVID V. RILE
May 5, 1950 - December 25, 2025
David V. Rile, 75, originally from Los Alamos, New Mexico, passed away in his home in Santa Fe-the city he knew and loved-on December 25, 2025. He was born in Santa Fe on May 5, 1950, to the late Albro and Dorothy Rile. David's life was marked by creativity, intellect, and a deep love for his friends and community.
After graduating from high school, David went on to attend Arizona State University, where he excelled academically and graduated at the top of his class with a degree in Political Science. During his college years, he studied abroad in Denmark for a time and grew to love new cultures and traveling.
Although his studies leaned toward politics, David's career took a creative turn after college. He worked as a graphic artist in Denver and San Francisco for many years, excelling to the point that his experience and talent led him to Brooklyn, New York. There, he built a distinguished 20-year career with Fortune magazine, where he was admired by colleagues for both his talent and his sharp wit.
After retirement, David returned to his beloved Santa Fe, purchasing an adobe home and continuing to work remotely for Fortune for several more years.
David's humor, warmth, and generosity made him beloved among friends and co-workers alike. He had a sharp, dry wit and delighted in lively company and intelligent conversation.
A true patron of the arts, David spent many years as a dedicated docent for the Santa Fe Opera and served as an usher at the Lensic Theatre. He especially loved gathering friends to share a night of theatre or music, turning each outing into a cherished memory for all.
His passions extended to travel, games, and cultural exchange. He relished a good game of Scrabble-which he normally won-and loved the game so much that he would engage fellow riders on the New York City subway to play with him. Later in retirement, he became an avid bridge player and enjoyed playing weekly with two groups, continuing up until a week prior to his passing.
David is survived by his sisters, Mary Texidor and her husband Daniel, and Ruth Ann Smith and her husband Wally; his niece, Sarah Shearer and her husband Peter; and his great-niece and great-nephew, Rachel and Andrew Shearer.
The family expresses their deep gratitude to Marilyn and Barry Smith for loving David like family, and to the many friends who stood by him over the years. To Liz Dee and Mac Ennis, Janet (TJ) Taub, and Kandy Frame, the family is indebted for their steadfast care and companionship in David's final years. You all blessed his life more than you will ever know. You were family to our brother.
To the caregivers at Scotts House, Anvoi Hospice Care, and CareRite Home Care, thank you for your kindness and compassion in keeping David comfortable in his final days. The family is deeply grateful for your selfless support during a difficult time.
Although David is no longer with us, his warmth, humor, and generosity will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew him.