J. Richard Riley, 87 passed away peacefully on October 23, 2026 surrounded by his loving family. He spent much of his life in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., building a loving home with his wife and two daughters.

Dick graduated from Troy High School and went on to earn a certificate in heavy machinery. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1961 to 1964, stationed in Clarksville, Tennessee. A highlight of his later years was taking the Patriot Flight to Washington, D.C., in 2015. Dick built a dedicated career in the automotive industry, serving as a district and territory manager for Mac’s Chemicals, Champion, Moog, and Wagner.

An avid and passionate outdoorsman, Dick lived his life in rhythm with the changing seasons. Summers were spent on the waters of Lake George, where he was happiest camping and catching the wind on his sailboat with family and friends. When autumn arrived, he could be found deep in the woods hunting. Winters never slowed him down; he embraced the snow, carving down ski slopes and riding trails on his snowmobile.

Beyond his love for the outdoors, Dick was a master craftsman with a remarkable talent for artisan woodworking. His skill and patience live on in the beautiful, functional furniture he created for his family. He also possessed a rare gift for building intricately detailed toy vehicles, spending countless hours in his workshop meticulously crafting trains, trucks, and heavy machinery. His creations remain cherished family treasures.

Papa was never happier than when he was with his grandson, Jack. One of his greatest joys was watching Jack play sports and cheering him on with pride. The two were each other’s favorite sidekicks, always finding a way to make each other laugh with their shared sense of fun and gentle mischief. Their special bond was filled with an endless amount of love, creating cherished memories that will be carried on forever.

Dick is survived by his wife Alicia of 59 years; daughters Jennifer (Andy) D’Agostino and Jessica Riley; and his cherished grandson Jack Riley-Chittenden. He is also survived by his sisters, Janice Sullivan and Noreen (Ronald) Iacobucci, along with several nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his parents, John and Margaret Riley; brother and sister-in-law William and Joan Riley; and brother-in-law Robert Sullivan.

Relatives and friends may call from 11:00am to 1:00pm, Friday, October 30, 2026 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518-584-5373). A funeral home service/celebration of life will begin at 1:00pm.

Burial with Military Honors will follow the services at 2:00pm at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road, Schuylerville.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to Patriot Flight, PO Box 13776, Albany, NY 12212-3779, Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots or a Charity/Organization of your choosing.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com