James J. Riley IV

Our beloved father, James Joseph Riley IV, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2025, at the age of 88.

Born on September 11, 1937, in Wilmington, Delaware, Jim was the son of the late James Joseph Riley III and Kathryn (Reed) Riley. He was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Joan Marilyn Stewart Riley, and their son, Erik Brian Riley.

He is lovingly remembered by his children James Joseph Riley V (wife Barbara), Janice Riley Baker (husband Edward), and Sean Robert Riley; his treasured grandchildren Shannon Riley Velez (husband Harry) and Dillon Riley; and his precious great-grandsons Valen Velez and Rowan Velez. A dear family friend, Darlene Slaughter, also held a special place in his heart.

Jim was a lifelong learner, a craftsman at heart, and a man of quiet strength. A graduate of P.S. duPont High School (Class of 1955), he went on to earn a Chemical Engineering degree from the University of Delaware, completed a Teaching Fellowship at New York University, and later received his Master’s in Chemical Engineering from Lehigh University. He built a 35-year career with E.I. duPont de Nemours & Company, retiring in 1998 as Control Systems Manager.

For more than 50 years, Jim and Joan made their Wilmington home a place of warmth, laughter, and unforgettable gatherings. Their backyard was famous for crab feasts, pool parties, and two wedding celebrations that brought together friends and family from near and far. Jim’s hearty laugh was infectious, and his love of an ice-cold Budweiser was well known to all who pulled up a chair at one of those summer parties.

He found joy in woodworking, tackling home projects with meticulous care, and spending peaceful hours exploring Delaware’s state parks. A passionate reader with a special love for World War II history, Jim’s curiosity never faded. He was a proud member and supporter of Longwood Gardens, Winterthur, and Hagley Museum, and he continued to learn and share his knowledge as both a student and teacher at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute.

Those who knew Jim will remember his warm smile, booming laugh, and generous spirit. He lived life with authenticity, loyalty, and love — qualities that will live on in the family and friends who adored him.

We will forever cherish the wisdom, humor, and light he brought to our lives.

Services for Jim will be private.

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