Marvin Riley, 89, passed away on Tuesday, February 10, 2015 at Spring River Christian Village in Joplin. Marvin was born on October 29, 1925 to W.L. (Bill) and Edna Riley in what was known as Georgia City, Mo. close to Asbury, Mo. He grew up and farmed there for 85 years, the fourth generation of Riley’s to live on this farm. Marvin truly loved this farm and said he didn’t need or have time for a hobby.
Marvin was a friend to so many. He was never too busy to listen. Even when he moved to SRCV in 2012, he continued to make friends. Wearing his overalls, he made his daily rounds visiting his friends and cheering up residents. He said it made him feel useful. He had a wonderful sense of humor, a quiet strength, and a great sense of humility.
Mr. Riley began playing the violin at a young age. He was encouraged to play by his mother, even though he said he would have rather been outside. He continued playing in the orchestra in high school. On his 89th birthday, he entertained family and friends with a few of his favorite hymns. He always said with a grin that he played the violin, not the fiddle.
Marvin was a man of great faith and was a lifelong member of the Asbury United Methodist Church, where he was the Sunday School superintendent.
Marvin attended Asbury Elementary School and graduated with the class of 1943 from Carl Junction High School. He also served many years on the local school board. Although he had no formal college education, he was asked to lecture at the University of Missouri to share his knowledge of farming, particularly irrigation.
Mr. Riley cherished his family. On January 13, 1946, Marvin married Katie Moore, the love of his life. They were married for 65 years; Katie Riley passed away in October of 2010. Mr. Riley leaves a sister, Lorena Trinkle of Middletown, Ohio. He is also survived by three children; Marilyn (Michael) Mongan of Independence, Mo., Steve (Debra) of Asbury, and Lana Bowling of Springfield. His was affectionately known as “Grampy” to his eight grandchildren; Heather (Michele) McQueen, Patrick (Katie) McQueen, John (Rachel) Riley, Jeremy (Tiffany) Riley, Justin Riley, Courtney Bowling, Tabitha Bowling, and Lindsey Bowling. He was greatly loved by his great-grandchildren; Payton, Evie, Paige, Audrey, Jack, and Vivian. He is also survived by nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to thank all those at Spring River Christian Village and all those who visited Marvin and enriched his life.
Services will be held at the Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City at 2:00 PM on Friday the 13th, 2015. A visitation will be prior to the service beginning at 1:00 PM. until the service time at the funeral home. Friends and family are welcome to come by the funeral home on Thursday between the hours of 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM for viewing. Burial will follow at the Carl Junction Cemetery.
In memory of Mr. Riley the family asks that you perform an act of kindness in your community.
May the road rise to meet you, may the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face. May the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, May the Lord hold you in the palm of His hand.
Irish Proverb
Services are under the direction of Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City. Visit www.simpsonfh.com for online condolences.
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