Joseph Timothy Riley

Joseph T. Riley, 66, of Middletown, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 20, 2026. He was the loving husband of Jennifer (Dunbar) Riley and loving father of Joseph T. Riley Jr. Born in Newport, RI on June 9, 1959, He was the son of the late John Coughlin and Mary Corinne (Murphy) Riley. He grew up in the Fifth Ward and enjoyed an active childhood with his family and friends. Joe was a kind and generous man, and exuded his care for others in his career and at home with his family. He was a loving husband, father, brother, and uncle. He enjoyed a fulfilling 36 year career at Better Community Living, providing support programs to adults with disabilities. He was a devoted advocate, working to provide what was needed for his staff, the individuals, and their families. At home, Joe enjoyed an adventurous spirit, taking advantage of every day with his wife Jennifer and their son Joey. Spur of the moment road trips, outings, and excursions, often without anyone in the car knowing where they were going, kept every day exciting. He also enjoyed being outside either at the beach or camping. Joe enjoyed cheering for the Patriots, Red Sox, and Celtics with his son Joey, or wandering the local roads with Jennifer to find a yard sale, flea market, or anywhere hiding some antique treasures.

Joseph is survived by his wife of 24 years, Jennifer (Dunbar) Riley, and their son Joseph T. Riley, Jr., his siblings; John C. Riley, Jr, (Pat) of Lynn, MA, Thomas Riley (Joan) of Smithfield, RI, and David Riley (Jane) of Newport, RI, his father in law Ronald W. Dunbar Sr. (Brenda) of West Warwick, RI, his brother in law Ron Dunbar Jr. (Kristin) of Newport, and many adoring nieces and nephews.

Joseph is preceded in death by two sisters, Mary Riley, and Sally Rawnsley, his parents John C. and Mary C. Riley, and his mother in law Bernadette Thibodeau.

Visiting hours will be held on Sunday, March 01, 2026 from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Broadway, Newport. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, March 02 at 10:00 AM in St. Barnabas Church, 1697 East Main Road, Portsmouth.

Donations in his memory may be made to Better Community Living, 5 Ventura Dr, Dartmouth, MA 02747.Online Tribute at www.memorialfuneralhome.com