Marie Riley departed from this world on September 29, 2024, in McAlester, Oklahoma, aged 86.

The family will greet friends 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at Bishop Funeral Service and Crematory.

Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, October 2, 2024 at Bishop Chapel of Memories officiated by Pastor Jesse Belvin and James Belvin. Burial to follow in Memory Gardens Memorial Park Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be: James Belvin, Jake Riley, Bralin Edgerton, Issiah Belvin, Dominic Giaudrone and Larry Turney.

Honorary pallbearers: Josh Riley, Abel Belvin, Gary Riley and Dale “Wince” Yount.

Born Marie Smith on August 18, 1938, in Lequire, to Thomas Jefferson and Thelma L. (McMahan) Smith; she grew up to epitomize the spirit of loving-kindness that would touch all who knew her.

Marie dedicated her life to her beloved family and her community. She tied the knot with James Leroy Riley, Sr., on June 30, 1961, in McAlester, and together they embarked on a journey of love, laughter, and shared dreams until his passing in 2017.

Marie had worked at Seamprufe, Frink School in the cafeteria and day care and she also worked 10 years at Bill’s Dollar Store in McAlester. She was known for her warmth and approachable demeanor. Her dedication extended beyond her work to the Frink Baptist Church, where she was a devoted member and taught Sunday School for over 45 years, serving her faith community with her whole heart. She enjoyed knitting, sewing and being with her family and friends.

More than anything, Marie cherished her role within her family. She was the matriarch who brought joy and unity, creating a legacy of love that will endure through generations.

She is survived by; her daughter, Teresa Belvin of McAlester; daughter-in-law, Gina Riley of Seminole; her adoring granddaughters Lindsey Giaudrone and husband, Dominic; Erin Riley; grandsons James Belvin and wife, Felicia, Jesse Belvin and wife, Abby, Jacob Riley and Christina Williamson, Joshua Riley. Her great-grandchildren, Caden, Bralin, Issiah, Abel, Makenna, Payton, Morgan, Gabriel and Jaxson will miss her tender care and boundless affection. Marie's brother-in-law, Gary Riley and wife, Debbie and sister-in-law, Janice Yount and husband Dale and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends, will retain the fondest memories of her.

Marie's life was marked by her spirited nature and a faith-filled heart. Those who loved her describe Marie as an embodiment of pure love, a woman whose spirit soared even as her feet walked gently on the earth. Her interests were simple yet profoundly impactful—delighting in the growth and happiness of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, offering them the kind of unconditional love that only a grandmother can give.

Preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Thelma Smith, her husband, James Leroy Riley, Sr.; son, James L. “Jimmy” Riley, Jr.; her twin brother, Marine Smith; and her son-in-law, Carl Belvin, Marie leaves behind a treasure trove of memories that her family and friends will hold close to their hearts forever.

Marie Riley's life was a living example of the scripture she held so dear, a testimony to love, compassion, and faith in action. As she enters eternal rest, her spirit will continue to illuminate the lives she touched, guiding them like a soft, radiant light in the hearts of those who loved her