William Donald RILEY

William Donald RILEY obituary, Rolla, MO

William Donald RILEY

William RILEY Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Shadel's Colonial Chapel - Lebanon on Feb. 4, 2026.
WILLIAM DONALD "BILL" RILEY, one of two sons born to Robert Wesley and Elsie Jane (Eye) Riley, was born April 13, 1936, in Tucson, Arizona and departed this life February 2, 2026, in Rolla, Missouri, at the age of eighty-nine years.

On September 20, 1958, Bill was united in marriage with his forever love, Barbara Davis. Together they shared sixty-seven years of laughter and memories, while raising their two children, Randall and Susan.

Bill made a profession of faith in Christ early in life. In 1963, he and Barbara became members of Trinity Lutheran Church, where they attended faithfully, as long as their health allowed.

Bill worked hard to provide for his family. He worked at Detroit Tool Engineering for forty years until his retirement. He earned much deserved respect for his dedication and expertise. His co-workers became his close friends and he treasured each friendship.

Earlier in life, Bill enjoyed flying airplanes. He also enjoyed family vacations in the RV and music shows at the lake and in Branson with Barbara. They loved traveling, but more importantly, just spending time together. He also enjoyed hobby farming and watching Westerns. However, nothing compared to the time spent and laughter shared with his family. They were his greatest accomplishment.

Bill is survived by his wife, Barbara; two children, Randall Riley and his wife Jana and Susan Riley, all of Lebanon, MO; one brother, Robert "Bob" Riley, Jr. of Grovespring, MO; four grandchildren, Zachary Volner and his wife Emily, Matthew Riley, Caleb Volner and Jessica Volner; two great-grandchildren, Gracelynn and Harper Volner; other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Bill was a devoted husband, caring father, loving grandfather, cherished brother and loyal friend. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Funeral Service for Bill will be held Monday, February 9, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church.

There is no scheduled visitation.

Burial will be at Mount Rose Memorial Park.

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

How to support William's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

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

Read more
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.

Read more
Ways to honor William RILEY's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

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

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

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

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

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

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

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

Read more

Sign William RILEY's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?