Robert Bruce Riley, Sr.

Robert Bruce “Bob” Riley, Sr. September 19, 1938 – April 13, 2017 Robert Bruce “Bob” Riley, Sr. of Rocky Mount went to be with the Lord Thursday, April 13, 2017 after months of declining health. He was a faithful husband, a wonderful father, brother and loving Papa. Bob was born on September 19, 1938 in Wilson, North Carolina to the late Bruce Wesley and Sudie Forbes Riley. He was a graduate of Charles L. Coon High School and Atlantic Christian College (now Barton College). Bob enjoyed a 45 year career in the banking industry mostly in Spartanburg, SC and ending his career with Southern Bank in Rocky Mount. He enjoyed studying God’s Word in Bible Study Fellowship and absorbing what he could on the life and writings of his American hero Thomas Jefferson. He also enjoyed traveling and “antiquing” whenever he could, as well as a love for Clemson football. His civic endeavors included the American Legion, Lions Club, Rotary Club and United Way. The Sertoma Club and Jaycee International awarded him Lifetime memberships because of his leadership in those two organizations. Bob is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Joyce Miller Riley; daughter, Melinda Butler and husband, David of Anderson, SC; son, Robert Riley and wife, Tiffiny of Mocksville; very special grandchildren Alan, Isabel and Lydia Butler of Anderson, SC; Tyler and Noah Riley of Mocksville; stepmother, Ruth Granger Riley of Greensboro; a sister, Sara Lynn Kennedy and husband, K. D. of Raleigh; brother, Tom Riley and wife, Carol, of Raleigh; sister-in-law Marilyn Thompson and husband, C.A.; brother-in-law Art Miller and wife, Marsha; as well as many nieces and nephews. A celebration of Bob’s life will be held on Monday at 1p.m., First Baptist Church, 200 South Church Street, Rocky Mount with visitation following service. The Rev. Bill Grisham and Larry Curtis will officiate. Burial will follow in Maplewood Cemetery, 400 College Street, NW, Wilson, NC. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s memory may be made to First Baptist Church where Bob so faithfully served. The family would like to thank the medical staff of Nash General’s ICU and nurses of the 3rd floor. We will be forever grateful to special friend and caregiver Samantha Bissett who provided such wonderful care to Bob. Condolences may be directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home at www.joyners.net.