Robert J. Riley, 88, of Buffalo, passed away on November 27, 2021, at his home in Lovejoy surrounded by loved ones. Born on Easter Sunday, April 16, 1933, to the late Michael A. and Agnes (nee Blundy) Riley, Bob was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend.

Bob is survived by his wife of 55 years, Mary (nee Lake) Riley.

Loving Father of Michael (Maureen) Riley, Mary Beth (Eric) Metcalf, Patrick (Denise) Riley, Daniel (Pamela) Riley, Christopher (Joanna) Riley, Charles (Tina) Riley, Kathleen Riley, and Paul (Yrua) Riley.

Cherished Grandfather of Isaac Metcalf, Emily Riley, Suzanna Metcalf, Matthew Riley, Kaitlyn Riley, Philip Metcalf, Shaina Riley, Caleb Riley, Madelyn Riley, Jonathan Riley, Eric Riley, Julianna Riley, Nicholas Riley, and Joseph Riley.

Bob is also survived by his sister Jane Riley, niece Peggy Ruben and nephews Paul Ruben and Charlie Ruben .

Mr. Riley was a graduate of East High (Class of '51) and University of Buffalo (Class of '55), he earned a Master's Degree in Education and Social Work. He found joy and purpose in serving others, committing his life to working for peace and justice. Active in the Civil Rights Movement and the Peace Movement during the Vietnam War, he was a member of the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) and a lifelong member of the WNY Peace Center. He was a dedicated member of his parish communities of St. Agnes and St. Katharine Drexel, and in the East Lovejoy community where he lived his entire life. Bob enjoyed community organizing and was instrumental in neighborhood initiatives such as installing curbs, pavement, and stop signs, keeping Engine 28 open, and welcoming newcomers to the neighborhood. A long-time member of the ABLEY Board, he also served as a Meals on Wheels Volunteer. For 28 years, Bob worked for Erie County Department of Social Services Adult Protection serving those struggling with homelessness, mental illness, and addiction. In retirement, he spent his days visiting the sick, the imprisoned and bringing Eucharist to the homebound. In 2005, he and his wife were awarded the St. Joseph the Worker Award by the Diocese of Buffalo. In a final act of generosity, Bob donated his body to U.B.'s Anatomical Gift Program.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at Noon on Saturday, December 4, 2021, at St. Katharine Drexel Parish, 135 N. Ogden, Buffalo, New York 14206.

Masks will be required during Mr. Riley's Services.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Katharine Drexel, 135 N. Ogden, Buffalo, New York 14206.