A.J. Riley

A Time to be Born - AJ affectionately known as “Speedy” or to his grands “Big Daddy” was born on June 5, 1930, to the late Ella Lee Boose and Hillard Riley in Peach County Georgia. He was the middle child of the three from this union. 

A Time to Grow - “Speedy” attended the public schools of Peach County. He accepted and joined Fairview CME Church in Fort Valley, Georgia at an early age. Though his formal education was brief, his life was rich in lessons and wisdom taught not by textbooks, but by experience, responsibility, hard work and grace.

 A Time to Love - Speedy was united in Holy Matrimony to the late Mattie Lee Johnson Riley in 1956. To this union, five children were born, one preceding him in death.

 A Time to Serve - Speedy was employed with Bluebird Body Company where he proudly served for 47 years. When he wasn’t working, you’d likely find him outdoors -fishing pole in hand, waiting patiently by the waters or walking through the woods with his 410 shotgun during hunting season. In those moments where he could spend hours outside, he was most himself; calm, patient and content with life. 

A Time to Rest - On August 1, 2025, God peacefully called AJ from labor to reward. He is reunited with his beloved wife of 52 years, Mattie Riley. He is survived by four children: Alonzo Riley of McDonough, GA; Pamela Riley, Gail Adams and Phyllis (Donald) Hart all of Fort Valley, GA; one child who preceded him in death, Sherry Ann Lowman Edwards; and one daughter-in-law who preceded him in death, Patrica Ann Moore Riley. Two siblings: Ruby Gibson and James Hill that preceded him in death; sister-in-Law; Callie Brown of Miami, FL; 9 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, friends and a devoted friend, Ray Monfort.