Paul J. Riley
October 18, 1932 – February 8, 2024
Memorial Service
A celebration of life memorial was held on Saturday, June 8, 2024 in Washington, D.C.
Paul Joseph Riley Obituary
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Paul Joseph Riley on February 8, 2024 in San Diego, CA, at the age of 91.
Paul was born on October 18, 1932, in Fall River, MA, to Ruth Elizabeth Cyr Riley and Joseph Michael Riley. He grew up in Fall River, MA and in Warwick/Conimicut, RI. As a young man, Paul enlisted in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Alaska. He served from 1952–1955, and retired from the National Guard in 1964. Upon discharge from the Army in 1955, he attended Northeastern University in Boston, MA, earning a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering. He then joined the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in 1960, and moved to Washington, D.C. While working for the CIA, he traveled the world and pursued an interest in Latin American studies. In 1971, Paul left the CIA to embark upon a new career in law. He earned his Juris Doctor degree from the International School of Law at George Mason University in May 1976. Paul established his practice in Washington, D.C. and worked as a criminal defense attorney in the D.C. Superior and Federal Courts, and in his later years, as an estate and probate attorney. He argued a wide range of legal cases over the years, and helped many people, until his retirement in 2019.
Paul married Mildred Ann (“Millie”) Willett Stolbach on July 19, 1969. He was a devoted husband to Millie for over 50 years. They made their home in Dupont Circle in Washington, D.C., where they raised their two daughters, Rachele and Erin. Paul, and Millie, traveled widely throughout their lives—enjoying culture, people, and places around the world. Paul loved living in Washington, D.C., where he participated in many political and cultural events, and where he was active in the Catholic faith community. He also enjoyed many years with Millie renovating their “Cricket Hill” house, located outside of Shepherdstown, WV. Paul, and Millie both, enjoyed hosting and organizing gatherings—opening up their homes to visits from family and friends over the years. Paul was a pillar of strength and spirit in his family and community. He was a loving and supportive husband, father, grandfather, cousin, and uncle; and a dear friend. His kindness, wisdom, humor, and unwavering support and generosity touched the lives of all who knew him.
Paul is predeceased by his wife, Mildred Ann (“Millie”) Riley; his mother, Ruth Riley, his father, Joseph Riley, and his brother, Michael Riley. He is survived by his brother, Edward Riley (Ellen) of Queensland, Australia, his sister, JoAnne Barron of Sandy Spring, MD, his nieces and nephews; his two daughters, Rachele Cyr Riley (Matthew Hedt) of Durham, NC and Erin Phelps Riley (Jason Morgan) of San Diego, CA; and his grandson, Pascal Cavan Eure of Durham, NC.
[Published in The Washington Post on Friday, March 22, 2024]
If you would like to make a donation in memory of Paul J. Riley as an expression of sympathy, the family shares these suggestions:
Amnesty International
So Others Might Eat
Alzheimer’s Association
Oh, Danny Boy, the pipes, the pipes are calling
From glen to glen, and down the mountainside,
The summer’s gone, and all the roses falling,
It’s you, it’s you must go, and I must bide.
But come ye back when summer’s in the meadow,
Or when the valley’s hushed and white with snow,
Tis I’ll be here in sunshine or in shadow,
Oh, Danny Boy, oh Danny Boy, I love you so!
— Oh Danny Boy (Frederic Weatherly, lyrics, 1910)
Paul was a bright spot in my life and so many lives. I have many fond memories of him telling stories with a smile along with his signature laugh. He had a gift to make everyone in his presence feel special and welcome. The room seemed to light up with him there. I treasured the time I was able to spend with him and his wonderful family. He will be missed. Love to you both Erin and Rachele.
Paul and Millie were such great and warm people. Having met them though our children, Rachel, Erin, and Iliana, we kept in touch and enjoyed thier friendship and simplicity. They were REAL. Thanks for the many memories.
Dear cousins, these beautiful photos made my heart melt. Paul was loved by so many. We look forward to celebrating his life with everyone.
Some people are brilliant with everything they try. It seems Paul indeed shined bright like a diamond with every facet. Cheers. You and Millie were my hallway role models.
I had the privilege of getting to know Paul later in his life when he and Millie moved to the assisted living facility where I work. I cherished the moments I spent with Paul, listening to his tales of family, accomplishments, and cherished memories. His love for his family was evident in every conversation we had, and it was clear that he was immensely proud of each and every one of you.
Although Paul may no longer be with us physically, his presence will forever be felt in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. I am grateful for the opportunity to have crossed paths with such a remarkable individual, and I will always treasure the memories of our time together.
Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time of sorrow. May you find comfort and strength in the love and support of those around you, and may the cherished memories of Paul bring you peace in the days ahead.