CHAPEL HILL - Arthur Alton Riley, 86, of Chapel Hill, died Monday, March 2, 2009, at Durham Regional Hospital. He remained active and involved until his brief illness. He was a native of Orange county, born January 26, 1923.
Alton dearly loved his family and was extremely proud of his grandchildren. He had a wide circle of friends who he loved as an extended family. Throughout his long life, he freely and generously gave of himself. He married Nancy Jane Blackwood, August 19, 1943. He served his country in World War II in the 188th Parachute Infantry. After 36 years of service, he retired from the U.S. Postal Service. He was a long time member of Antioch Baptist Church and University Lodge #408. He was an avid Carolina Football fan. He had a special love for his home and yard spending countless hours gardening and growing flowers. He especially enjoyed sharing his vegetables and many flowers with family and friends.
Surviving are his son, Robert Earl Riley, of Chapel Hill; daughter, Sara Riley Hampton and husband, Robert of Greenville; granddaughter, Ashley Hampton Sarafino and husband, Jason of Smithfield; grandson, Robert Spencer Hampton of Greenville; sister, Betty Boggs of Haw River; brothers, Jesse Riley and Cecil Riley, both of Chapel Hill. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews and very special friend, Helen Warren of Graham.
He was preceded in death by his cherished wife of 59 years, Nancy Blackwood Riley; parents, Arthur N. and Lillian Earl Riley; sisters, Mildred Overman, Audrey Wilson, Ruby Riley; brothers, Hoyette Riley, Earl 'Jake' Riley; and daughter-in-law, Nancy Shaw Riley.
The family would like to thank the many friends, church members, men's club, 'coffee shop' friends, White Cross community, extended family, and special niece Earlene, for their support during the last couple of months. The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. March 4, 2009, at Antioch Baptist Church and other times at the home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Antioch Baptist Church, 1707 White Cross Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27516.
The funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. March 5, 2009, at Antioch Baptist Church by the Rev. David Atwater.
Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Arrangements are by McClure Funeral Home in Graham.
Published on 4 Mar 2009 in the Durham (NC) Herald-Sun.
