Charles W. Riley

CHARLES W. RILEY, age 75, of Abingdon, died in St. Joseph Hospital on February 20, 2005. Born in Upper Cross Roads, he was the son of the late Wilmer and Beatrice Marion Overmeyer Riley. For 25 years he was a part owner of Paidon Products in Aberdeen. He graduated from Bel Air High School in 1949. He ran track for the University of Maryland for 2 years. He served his country in the Army National Guard in Bel Air for 8 years. He worked as a painter at Edgewood Arsenal. He was a member of Cokesbury United Methodist Church, where he served as chairman for the Board of Trustees, caretaker of the Cokesbury Cemetery, was a former Sunday School teacher and an usher. He was a member of the Aberdeen Lions Club, chairman of the Harford County Liquor Board for 12 years, and a lobbyist for the Maryland State Fire Association. He was an avid gardener, enjoyed hunting, cutting firewood for his fireplace, and was an avid sports fan, especially for the Ravens, University of Maryland and the Bel Air High School. He served as program committee co-chairman for Bel Air High School Football for many years. He enjoyed helping others and spending time in Ocean City. He also served as a baseball coach for his sons’ baseball teams.

Mr. Riley is survived by his wife of 54 years, Phoebe “Sis” V. Nicholas Riley; two sons, Charles ”Chip” A. Riley and his wife, Sherry of Bel Air; Bruce R. Riley and his wife, Suzanne of Bel Air; one brother, Bradley M. Riley of Perryman; three grandchildren, Bethany M. Riley; Rebekah M. Riley; and Caleb E. Riley all of Bel Air.

Those who desire may contribute to Cokesbury United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 85, Abingdon, MD 21009.

Pallbearers will be; Dennis Nicholas, Tim Nicholas, Don Kern, Gene Worthington, Bernie Smith, Brian Donley, Bob Moulsdale, and Howard McComas III. Honorary pallbearers will be: Cecil Tapscott, Keith Ford, Jerry Anderson, Lou Espey, Don Ricketts, Mac McWilliams, Bob Benedict, Charles “Bunkey” Morkosky, and all other funeral service personnel.