JAMES W. RILEY SR.

James W. Riley, Sr. died Tuesday, Feb. 9, 1999 at Saint Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau. Mr. Riley was born July 30, 1927 in St. Louis, Mo. to John and Katherine Riley.

A graduate of Roosevelt High School in St. Louis, he attended the University of Missouri at Columbia where he was a member of the Alpha Sigma Phi fraternity. A veteran of the United States Army, he is credited with popularizing the phrase, "God Bless our Veterans!"Mr. Riley was married to Evelyn Marie Groth at St. Pius V Church in St. Louis on Nov. 22, 1951. Together they had three children, James W. Riley, Jr. (Michaele), Bridget A. Gilbert (John), and Mary Beth Booker (Tom).Mr. Riley is survived by his wife, children and four grandchildren including Tony Riley and Katherine, Nicholas and Ryan Gilbert. He is also survived by a brother, John E. Riley of Seattle, Wash., as well as numerous extended family and friends.

Throughout his professional life Mr. Riley worked in sales and advertising, beginning with the General Mills Corporation in 1951. He was Director of Sales & Marketing with Wetterau (SuperValu), and completed his career as the owner/operator of Riley & Associates.

Mr. Riley was active in several service organizations, including the Exchange Club, Meals on Wheels and Pastoral Services at the Missouri Veterans Home. He was a member of St. Vincent De Paul Parish and was involved in RCIA, Cursillo and other Catholic-related activities.

Friends and relatives are invited to pay respects at St. Vincent De Paul Parish Church at 1913 Ritter Dr. in Cape Girardeau between 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. this Friday. A Funeral Mass will be held in the church at 7:00 p.m. with the Rev. Milton Ryan, C.M. officiating.

A St. Louis visitation will be held at Schrader Funeral Home at 14960 Manchester on Saturday, Feb. 13, 1999 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Mr. Riley will be buried at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis.

Ford and Sons Mt. Auburn Funeral Home is in charge of local arrangements.