Michael James Riley, 81, a quiet and loving man, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2026, at Focused Care in Orange.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Officiating will be Reverend Jeff Bell. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Orange.
Visitation will begin prior to the service at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.
Born in Orange, Texas, on June 24, 1944, he was the son of James Benjamin “J.B.” Riley and Nancy (Ramos) Riley. Michael proudly served his country in the United States Air Force Reserve, and he dedicated over 50 years of his life to the TASO Umpiring Association – Beaumont Chapter, where his commitment was deeply valued. He was a proud member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles 2523 and enjoyed over 30 years as a member of the APA Pool League. Michael retired after a fulfilling career with the Sheet Metal Workers. His faith was important to him, and he was a longtime member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. Above all, Michael cherished his family, especially his nieces and nephews, whose events he faithfully attended, no matter the distance. His quiet nature was matched by his profound love and support for those he held dear.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Peggy Riley; his parents, James "J.B." and Nancy Riley; his brother, Daryl Riley; and his brother-in-law, Chuck Hernandez.
Michael is lovingly remembered by his brothers, Russell Riley and Charles Riley; his brother and sister-in-law, Bill Hernandez and his wife Mary; and his devoted caretaker and niece, Stephanie Nichols. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and a host of other loving family members and friends who will miss him dearly.
Serving as pallbearers will be Bill Hernandez, Jeremy Nichols, Charlie Nichols, Chase Hernandez, Landon Luna, and Jesse Bingham. Honorary pallbearers are David Abrego, Randy Hunter, Johnny Breaux, Clint McCall, Pat McCall, Christie Breaux, Gary Dearing, and Mike Garrison.
A special thank you to Focused Care and Southeast Texas Hospice for their loving care they took of Michael.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Southeast Texas Hospice at https://www.setxhospice.org/donate/.
