Elaine Riley

Obituary For Elaine Riley

Elaine Riley, a radiant soul born on October 7, 1963, in the heart of Youngstown, Ohio, the beloved daughter of Deacon Robert Lee Riley Sr. & Caroline Doward-Riley, peacefully departed this world on August 12, 2025, at her New Castle, PA residence. She leaves behind a legacy woven with love, resilience, and the vibrant beauty of life.

The youngest of thirteen children, Elaine was raised and nurtured in the faith at Ebenezer Church of God in Christ. A proud graduate of South High, she carried the color purple close to her heart—a hue that echoed her vibrant personality and love for life. She had an unending passion for music of varied genres, weaving melodies into the fabric of her days, and left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Elaine's journey brought her to New Castle, PA, upon retirement after she gracefully embraced her calling as a certified nursing assistant for the Ron Joy Nursing Home. For many years, she dedicated her heart and hands to the residents of the long-term care facility where her compassionate spirit and warm smile brightened the days of those she cared for. Elaine enjoyed walking, especially in the park or the store and random visits to her grandchildren.

Elaine’s memory will be sustained by her beloved children Teneshia Pettway, Deaunte' Riley, Timothy O. Riley, TaMikia Butler, and DeonDray Robinson, along with ten grandchildren- Kwezale, DaeQuan. Dyshawn, Tristan, Odyessie, Aneenah, Aneshia, Quiana, DeMachel, Princiera and sixteen great-grandchildren. Cherished as a sister, she will forever be remembered by her siblings Sara Riley, Gloria Riley, Barbra Riley, Linda Riley, Louella Drummond, Mattie Leggett, Robert Riley Jr., Willie Riley and Willie Boone.

As Elaine entered eternity, she joins her parents and siblings- CarrieBell Reese. Bertha Riley, Carrie Shelton, William Riley and Peter Hardy among the ancestors, all who preceded her in death. In the hearts of her family, her spirit will forever resonate, echoing the songs of love, compassion, and joy.

A public viewing to celebrate Elaine’s life will be held Tuesday August 19, 2025, in the chapel of the J.E. Washington Funeral Home, 2234 Glenwood Ave, in Youngstown, Ohio, from 11:00 AM -1:00 PM. The family warmly invites those who knew and loved Elaine to come together and reflect on her beautiful spirit.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Elaine Riley elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.

Her Journey’s Just Begun

Don’t think of her as gone away, her journey’s just begun
Life holds so many facets, this earth is only one.
Just think of her as resting from the sorrows and the tears
In a place of warmth and comfort where there are no days or years.
Think how she must be wishing that we could know today
How nothing but our sadness, can really pass away.
And think of her as living in the hearts of those she touched
For nothing loved is ever lost and she was loved so much.