Resident of San Jose

Shirley Lou Riley, a loving wife and mother, devoted church member, and dedicated educator, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2024, in San Jose, at the age of 94.

Born on January 25, 1930, in Salinas, Shirley grew up on a ranch during the Great Depression, an experience that shaped her resilience and resourcefulness. She attended San Jose High School, then continued her education at San Jose State University. There, Shirley earned her degree in Education, beginning her lifelong commitment to learning and teaching.

Shirley started her career as an elementary school teacher in Willow Glen. On March 29, 1952, she married her beloved husband, Melvin George Riley, and together they raised their family in San Jose.

When her children were older, Shirley returned to work at the Alum Rock Library as a librarian assistant. Later, she served as an employment counselor at the Employment Development Department. She also worked at San Jose State University in the Financial Aid Department.

Her career culminated at Mission College, where she taught reading improvement to immigrants, empowering them to succeed in a new country.

Despite a satisfying and productive career, Shirley’s true passion was spending time with her family. When her mother died unexpectedly in 1962, Shirley did not hesitate to assume the role of being aloving second mother to her young teenage sister.

Shirley also enjoyed being a member of Foothill Community Presbyterian Church for 67 years, where she volunteered for various leadership positions, projects, and church committees.

Preceded in death by her beloved husband, Melvin, who passed on December 16, 2009, Shirley is survived by her three children—Patrick Riley, Maureen Riley-Behlen (John), and Eileen Riley-Cochran (Dennis)—as well as her grandchildren, Ryan, Kenny, and Erin. She is also survived by her sister Nancy Rinehart.

A memorial service to celebrate Shirley's life will be held on Saturday, October 12, at 11:00 a.m. at Foothill Community Presbyterian Church, located at 5301 McKee Road, San Jose. A reception will follow.