Deborah J. Riley Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Deborah J Riley of Valatie NY passed away at her home on November 27, 2020. Debbie was born on May 21, 1952 in Catskill NY to Lawrence and Margaret Riley and lived in Athens NY until the passing of her mother in 1961. From the age of nine Debbie resided with her sister Constance Coon and her family in the village of Ravena NY. Debbie graduated from Ravena Coeymans High School in June of 1970 and went on to study history and Spanish at Hartwick College subsequently earning her BA from SUNY Albany. Debbie worked in the insurance industry for most of her career first at Kemper Insurance and then with Aetna Insurance from where she retired in 2017. During her working years Debbie made many connections and lifelong friends of her co-workers. Debbie was an avid lover of music and art and possessed remarkable skills in both areas. Debbie both enjoyed these activities herself and used her talents to bless others in her family, church and community. Debbie was an active member of the Bible Baptist Church of Ghent NY for the last 40 years. For many years she served as a teacher for the mentally handicapped Sunday school class. Most recently Debbie volunteered at the Churches Christian Day School ministry by assisting students in their art classes. Wherever Debbie served those around her enjoyed her positive spirit and unconditional love. Debbie is survived by her sisters Constance Coon of Ravena NY, Patricia Martine of Hudson NY, Denise Favicchio of Athens NY, Sandra Sterritt of Schodack Landing NY, Kathleen (Lawrence) Brooks of Athens NY, Tamara (Robert) Wyant of Athens NY and by her brothers David (Charlene) Riley of Athens NY, Timothy Riley of Charlotte NC, James (Anne) Riley of Catskill NY, and Steven Riley of Glenmont NY. Debbie also leaves behind 19 nieces and nephews, many great nieces, great nephews, friends, and church family. Debbie was preceded in death by her eldest brother William Riley of Syracuse NY and brothers- in- law, James Favicchio of Athens NY, Henry (Hank) Coon of Ravena NY, James Sterritt of Schodack Landing NY, and Jack Martine of Athens NY. It is a great thing when people have a positive impact on those they meet. Debbie was one of those people. She is remembered by family, friends, co-workers and fellow church members as someone who was kind, caring, witty, generous and intelligent. A person like this leaves an indelible mark on the lives on those they touch and are incredibly missed when they are gone. Know that her family is missing her terribly, but while all who knew her grieve her passing, they can take comfort in knowing that she is truly home. God was ready for Debbie and she was greeted and embraced with love. Due to COVID restrictions there will be no extended services at this time but rather a brief graveside service for family and friends on December 10th at 11:30 am at the Old Athens Rural Cemetery. A memorial service is tentatively planned for May of 2021 and will be held at the Bible Baptist Church in Ghent NY. Donations in Debbie’s memory may be made to The Bible Baptist Church, 1323 County Route 21 Ghent NY 12075 or to the Capital City Rescue Mission PO Box 1999 Albany NY 12202 Condolences may be made at www.richardsfuneralhomeinc.net

Deborah J. Riley

May 21, 1952 - November 27, 2020