Born September 1, 1952, in Clarksburg, WV, he was the son of the late James Ferrell Riley and Nancy Lee (Glover) Riley. On May 27, 1973, he married the love of his life, Brenda Marie (Jenks) Riley, who survives at their home in Nutter Fort with their beloved dog Benji.
Also left to cherish his memory are two children, Ryan Riley and wife Crystal of Bridgeport, and Keri Smith and husband Jason of Little Hocking, OH; four grandchildren, Camden Riley and wife Allie, Payton Riley, Mollie Smith, and Daniel Smith; three step-grandchildren, Zach McWhirt and wife Savannah, Ryan McWhirt and wife Jennifer, and Brooke Sova and husband Teddie; two special cousins that he considered sisters, Joyce de Cuba and Twilla “Junie” Stoler; as well as several in-laws, nieces, nephews, and close friends he considered family.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, David Riley.
Jim was a 1970 graduate of Shinnston High School and earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from West Virginia University in 1974. He began his career as a social worker with the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, then returned to WVU to earn his law degree in 1982. Over the years he practiced with several law firms and retired as a partner from McNeer, Highland, McMunn & Varner.
Jim was a longtime member of Vincent Memorial United Methodist Church. He was an avid WVU fan and found his greatest joy in time spent with his family—especially camping with his wife, children, and grandchildren.
Family and friends may call at Amos Carvelli Funeral Home, 201 Edison Street, Nutter Fort, on Sunday from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Monday, July 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow in Bridgeport Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 1299 Pineview Drive #3, Morgantown, WV 26505.
Expressions of sympathy may be extended to the family at amoscarvelli.com . A service of Amos Carvelli Funeral Home.