Ray Alfred Riley, Sr.

Ray Alfred Riley, Sr., age 84, husband of the late Mickey O’Shields Riley, passed away Thursday, January 8, 2026 on her birthday at Hospice of Laurens County.

He was born in Clinton, South Carolina on May 6, 1941 and was the son of the late Petus Eugene Riley and Donie Earwood Riley. Ray earned his Associate Degree in Industrial Management from PTC, laying a strong foundation for his professional and community endeavors. He served his country with honor as a proud veteran of the United States Navy. Following his military service, Ray dedicated 35 years to the United States Postal Service before retiring, demonstrating his commitment and reliability in his professional life.

Ray’s passion for youth development was evident through his remarkable involvement in the Boy Scouts. For over 50 years, he served as Scoutmaster of Troop 111 and Pack 21 Cub Scouts. His leadership and dedication were recognized with the prestigious Silver Beaver Award. He took immense pride in his family’s achievements, as all five of his sons attained the rank of Eagle Scout, and three of his grandchildren followed in their footsteps. Ray was always eager to volunteer his time, continually striving to create better opportunities for the youth of Clinton.

Beyond Scouting, Ray was deeply engaged in his community. He served as Lieutenant Governor of the Kiwanis Club and was a past president of the Clinton Kiwanis Club, where he worked to improve the lives of children and families. Additionally, he contributed to American Legion Post 56 as both past Commander and Treasurer, supporting veterans and promoting civic responsibility.

Ray was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Clinton. He served as a deacon and participated as a member of the youth committee, reflecting his commitment to his faith and the spiritual growth of young people in his community.

Surviving are his five sons, Ray A. Riley, Jr. of Clinton, Tim Riley (Connie) of Irmo, Todd Riley (Laurie) of Greenwood, Steve Riley (Dana) of Greenwood, Alex Riley (Mary-Wallace) of Clinton; fourteen grandchildren; Chris Giles (Elizabeth), Paul Giles (Chantel), Ray A. Riley III (Johanna), Daina Riley Phillips (Evan), Travis McMurry, Tanner Riley (Raine), Jordan Riley (Alyssa) Abigail Riley, Lindsey Riley Turner (Brad), Chandler Couick, Lauren Hammond (Stephen Blackwell), Parker Hammond, Daniel Riley (Angel), Lydia Riley and a grandchild at heart, Natlie Barrineau Argueta; six great grandchildren, Theo Phillips, Riley Turner, Greyson Blackwell, Hadley Blackwell, Declan Turner, Ellie Grace Riley.

In addition to his parents and his wife of 63 years, Ray is preceded in death by his half brothers and sisters from a previous marriage; daughters-in-law, Gail Weddle Riley and Becky Bostic Riley.

A Memorial Service will be conducted on Friday, January 16, 2026 at 2:00 PM at the First Baptist Church of Clinton with Rev. Dr. Blake Harwell and Mr. Steve Riley officiating. The family will greet friends in the church sanctuary following the service. A Private Burial with Military Honors will be conducted at Pinelawn Memory Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, please honor Ray with memorials to Boy Troop 111 c/o Alex Cruickshanks, 207 Derby Lane, Clinton, SC 29325 or First Baptist Church of Clinton, P O Box 95, Clinton, SC 29325.

The family would like to give special thanks to Ray’s caregivers from Woodbridge Assisted Living, Austin Godfrey, R’Nash Godfrey, Sharissa Higgins, Kyla Goggans and Mary Ann Jones.

Condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.grayfuneralhome.com

Gray Funeral Home of Clinton is assisting the Riley family with services.