Genevieve Brennan Riley, age 98, of Wilmington, DE, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 9, 2020.
Born in Wilmington, Genevieve was the daughter of the late John Patrick and Elizabeth (Moran) Brennan. She graduated from P.S. DuPont High School Class of 1940, as well as Goldey Beacom College. For many years, Genevieve was an administrative assistant with Frank A. Gunnip and Company. She was a devout Catholic and longtime parishioner of St. Matthew’s Catholic Church for over 71 years, where she was an active member of the Blessed Virgin Mary Sodality.
Family was the center of Genevieve’s life. She treasured spending time with her children and grandchildren, especially having everyone together when she hosted her traditional Sunday dinners. The family will cherish memories from the annual family vacations in Ocean City, MD. Genevieve was a kind and loving caregiver as she nurtured and cared for her family and friends throughout her life.
In earlier years, Genevieve and her husband, Paul, had a close knit group of friends with whom they enjoyed playing poker, as well as traveling to the Poconos for fun weekends.
Genevieve was predeceased by her beloved husband of 58 years, Paul J. Riley, Jr.; her son, Stephen P. Riley; her parents and her sisters. She is survived by her children, Patricia R. Minner, Paul J. Riley, III (Georgianna), Michael C. Riley (Barbara), John P. Riley (Michele), Mary Ann Kenney (William), Elizabeth G. Riley, and Timothy T. Riley (Karen); her 19 grandchildren, 23 great- grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild.
Family and friends may visit from 5 to 7 PM on Monday, November 16 at Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Rd., Wilmington, DE 19808. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, November 17 at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, 901 E. Newport Pike, Wilmington, DE 19804. Interment will follow at All Saints Cemetery.
Genevieve’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at St. Francis Life Center and Regal Heights Assisted Living for their kind and compassionate care.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Swank Memory Care Center, ChristianaCare, Office of Development, 4000 Nexus Dr., Suite W3-300, Wilmington, DE 19803 or St. Matthew’s Catholic Church.
To offer condolences, visit www.dohertyfh.com.
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