Willie B. Riley

Deacon Willie B. Riley

An Onward Christian Soldier

Deacon Willie B. "Cletus" Riley passed away Saturday, June 22, 2024, in his home, that he shared with his loving wife of 44 years, Francis Riley. 

Riley, as family called him, was born May 26, 1937, in Orangeburg, South Carolina to his father, Pettie Riley and his mother, Sally Gillard Riley, who both preceded him in death. 

 Riley grew up in Charleston, South Carolina, with three sisters, Annie Lee Prezzie and Lizzie Harrie both of Charleston, South Carolina and Carrie Franklin of Manning, South Carolina; and one brother, Robert Riley, who preceded him in death. 

 At an early age, Deacon Riley, a strong God-fearing man joined Refuge Temple Holiness Church in Charleston, South Carolina, under the leadership of Elder Archie Woods. After relocating to Florence, South Carolina, year later, he was lead to Saint Jude Apostolic Church in Florence, South Carolina and joined under the leadership of Bishop Julius Parrott, where he served as a Deacon. In everything he did, he spread the word to anyone that would listen. Whether he was at the grocery store or work, he wanted everyone to know and embrace the love of God. 

He spent many of his years making a difference in working with kids in Florence School District One, which led to him fostering children for seven years.

 After retiring, he put all his love into his church and his family. Anyone that knew him, knew he loved all his grandchildren unconditionally and he was so proud of each of them. 

 Riley is survived by his wife, Francis Riley; and his children, Elder David (Julie) Dargan, Sharon Dargan, Darrin (Jeanette) Riley, Christine Robbins and Renard (Anita) Carlos. 

 In addition to his children, he leaves behind his twelve grandchildren, Sharrell Dargan, Lanette McCall, Keeno (Crystal) Dargan, Trell (Chante’) Dargan, Ashley Dargan, Gabrielle W. (Mike) Jones, Justin Dargan, Jamel Dargan, Renard Carlos, Bernard Carlos, Marquis Carlos and Devone (Elizabeth) Robbins. 

 He also leaves behind his eighteen great-grandchildren, Brakera, Braquel, Kylie, Khloe, KJ, Semaj, Deante,’ Jordan, Camorah, Angel (the families’ guardian angel), Elijah, Meliana, Maleah, Michael Jr., Mikiyah, Daquez, Keshawn, and Courtney.

 Family for him wasn't limited to children and grandchildren; he leaves his love behind to four sisters-in-law, Mary Muller, Sally Parks, Denise (Reverend Maurice) Jackson and Calena Dargan; two brothers-in-law, Edward Conner and Albert Conner; and a host of other relatives, his church family and so many more. 

Please keep the family of Deacon Willie B. "Cletus" Riley in your thoughts and prayers.