Helen Riley

Vera Helen Riley, 74, of Old Town, FL passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, March 13, 2025, in Ft. Pierce, FL.

Helen was born in West Palm Beach, Florida to William and Vera (Blair) Burns. She married Pastor Patrick Riley. Together, they raised 5 children and pastored churches in Groveland and Melrose before continuing God’s work at Abundant Life Church of God in West Palm Beach, FL for over 40 years.

Her family, including 15 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, and her faith brought great joy to her life. She was always active in the children’s and women’s ministry wherever the Lord led her family. She enjoyed the outdoors and gardening as well as fishing with her family and exploring the world on the back of her husband’s motorcycle.

She will be greatly missed by her beloved children, sons, Joe (Julie) Riley of Washington, Mike (Kim) and Rick, both of Virginia and Howard (Amanda) of Florida; daughter, Patricia (Ricky) Grigg of North Carolina. She was proud of her 15 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren with number 10 on the way. She will be remembered with love by her 6 siblings.

She was preceded by her husband and best friend of 52 years, Pastor Patrick J. Riley, and her parents, Vera and William Burns.

A visitation will be held for her at Spirit Life Church of God 700 S 33rd St, Fort Pierce, FL 34947 on Tuesday, March 18th from 2PM to 3PM with a Funeral Service to start at 3PM. Helen will be laid to rest with her beloved husband on Wednesday, March 19th at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL.