Marilyn J. (Yaeger) Riley

Marilyn J. Riley, age 93, of Pittsfield, IL passed away Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at her son’s home in Pittsfield, IL, surrounded by family. She was born December 25, 1930, in Hardin Township, IL to Jesse Bryan and Esther Elizabeth Norton Yaeger. Marilyn married Carl C. Riley September 25, 1949, at Pittsfield United Methodist Church and he preceded her in death October 30, 2018.

Marilyn graduated high school in 1948. She worked at Lewis Motor Co after marriage and children and later became chief deputy in the Pike County State’s Attorney’s office. She enjoyed attending art classes at Illinois College and was recognized as University of Illinois Extension Artist of the Year in 1979. Marilyn was a devoted member of Pittsfield United Methodist Church and was an active member of the choir for many years. She belonged to many local organizations; Interested Mother’s Club, Twin Rivers Art League, Pittsfield Main Street, Pittsfield Garden Club, Madonna Circle, Stormy Weather Bridge Club and was Cub Scout den mother. Marilyn liked to water ski, loved her flower garden and preserved much of her bounty for her family. She and Carl lived on the family farm for 38 years and they took great pride in their children, their grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Marilyn is survived by sons, James C. (Wava) Riley of Vonore, TN, Robert C. (Ellie Teaney) Riley of Pittsfield, IL and David A. (Jane) Riley of Pittsfield, IL; grandchildren, Tina Riley, Jacquelyn Riley, Craig Riley, Scott Riley, Dan Riley, Anne Peck and Robin Lozier; and great grandchildren; Hunter Riley, Delaina Riley, Kamryn Riley, Seton Riley, Will Riley, Eli Dunn, Austin Dunn, Staunton Peck, Kyle Peck, Riley Peck, Neva Nadine Lozier, Peter Lozier, Lucy Lozier, Binghampton Riley, Pennly Riley and Brigland Pfeffer Riley.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse and Esther Yaeger; husband of 69 years, Carl Riley; brothers, Loyd Yaeger and Floyd Yaeger; and sister, Jessie Sloan Carr.

Graveside service will be held at 10:30 AM, Saturday, October 12, 2024, at West Cemetery in Pittsfield, IL. Memorials are suggested to be made to Pittsfield United Methodist Church. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com. Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Marilyn J. (Yaeger) Riley, please visit our floral store.