Joe Riley, 93, born November 10, 1923, died peacefully on Friday November 25, 2016 at Hospice House of Lansing. Joe was a longtime resident of Grand Rapids, Michigan, his adopted hometown. He was a member of the Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church where he sang in the Senior choir for a number of years.
Joe was a retiree of Dover Corporation, Blackmer Pump. He was a proud member of International Free and Accepted Modern Masons, Inc. Dessiso Lodge #25.
He was a man of integrity - his word was his bond. He often chided that he "wasn't for any foolishness", and he demonstrated that by living a respectable and upright life. Although he was very humble and modest, he took great pride in his appearance and was always well dressed and groomed.
In his younger years he enjoyed hunting w/friends and co-workers. In later years, you could find him out on one of his long daily walks.
Joe was preceded in death by his daughter, Luebirda Johnson and her mother Josiephine Johnson, both of Grand Rapids Michigan.
Joe relocated to Okemos Michigan in 2013, following the death of Josiephine. There he lived with his loving Granddaughter, Tory Hudson and her son Alexander for the rest of his days. He leaves behind a large extended family including Lucille Williams, Denise Bland, Erica Stewart, Jayden Stewart, Todd and Debra Cross, Jordan Cross, Blake Cross, Corey and Danielle Prince, Kennedi Prince, and many other loved ones.
Although he will be greatly missed by all, there is comfort in knowing that he was a man of strong faith and belief in Christ.
The family wishes to express gratitude to the Tri-County Office on Aging Elizabeth’s Place Adult Day Center and Hospice House of Lansing for all of their assistance in making Joe’s final days memorable.
Public viewing will be held on Sunday, December 4, 2016 at Ivy K. Gillespie Memorial Chapel, 1865 Eastern Ave SE, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The funeral services will be held on Monday December 5, 2016 at 11:00 AM with a family hour at 10:00 AM at Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, 510 Franklin St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joe Riley, please visit our
Heartfelt Sympathies Store.
