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James David
Riley
Apr 27, 1942 — Jul 21, 2019
Saint George
Mr. James David Riley was born April 27, 1942, in St. George, South Carolina to the late loving parents; Frank Riley Sr. and Nancy Segar Riley. Our dear JD was called home in-peace on July 21, 2019 at his residence after a long-timely illness.
During his lifetime, special needs; he loved, communicated, and always cared for his family, friends and neighbors in a loveable fashion, friendly atmosphere and a respectful manner being himself. JD was so ever proud, doing great deeds for the day, being helpful and useful in an extra-ordinary capacity as a handyman (Jack of all trades) in the community and other surrounding areas. He had a passion for dancing (sometimes only on one leg) to the oldies, but goodies and was often known as the "Life of the Party" to all in attendance. At one point, he would consider himself the man by saying "I'm a Love man around here" and they call me "JD." JD enjoyed music, while riding along with family, friends and neighbors (sometimes requesting or even demanding on-the-spot) a stop at Brice's Star-Lite Lounge for musical entertainment and listening pleasures on his way home, sweet home. He also made sure he collected his dollars with his favorite saying, "Gimme a dollar."
One of his greatest joys in life was building a foundation for a relationship with Andrew D. Green, oldest nephew, by meaningful, pleasant and good one-on-one conversations, laughs and handshakes, and learning from each other based on experiences every time, all the time. In fact, every time, JD saw him (my buddy) it brought love with joy into his world from the heart and in absence, he always asked about his beloved (my buddy) to those around or who just came along. It was like that and that's the way it was. However, one of his biggest thrills was joining the neighboring Ms. Angela Williams and sisters; Barbara Ann, Elaine and Michelle family for a greeting, an outing, and great hot, home-cooked meals at the tent during Shady Grove Campmeeting. This was an exciting and remarkable event giving him the opportunity to meet more family and friends on a yearly basis. JD enjoyed campmeeting so much, sometimes not ready-to-go. From a musical aspect and he loved his music, one of his hottest and baddest enjoyments was listening to favorite entertainers like James Brown's songs; "Say It Loud-I'm Black and I'm Proud," "I Got You (I Feel Good)," and "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag" and Michael Jackson with the album, "Thriller" songs; "Billie Jean" and "Beat It." He kept a steady beat and presented in his very own style the way dancing should be.
James David was preceded in death by father, mother, and his siblings – Frank Jr., Nancy, Rosetta, Louis, Herman and Deborah.
Despite many health problems with countless appointments and non-appointments to seek medical attention and care, he never gave up the fight or will to live and be happy. In fact, there wasn't a day that went by without JD being full of spirit to rise to the top and enjoy life. It was what and how he made it. JD was a people's person, who always went the extra-mile in touching the lives of many, he encountered by leaving love and happiness, a clap or high-kick leg up and a long-lasting impression.
He leaves to cherish fond memories: his loving sisters; Daisy (Charlie) Deacon Green Jr. and Louise (Johnnie B. Kelly) both of St. George, SC; four brothers; Joseph "Phean" (Josephine) Riley of Statesboro, GA, Samuel "Buck" D. Riley ( Devoted caretaker), Clarence Riley, and Kelvin M. Riley all of St. George, SC. Daniel "Leggs" Haynes, brother-in-law, of St. George, SC. Aunts; Catherine Rolack and Alma Boyd both of St. George, SC, Uncles; Jimmy Segar and David (Philippine) Segar both of St. George, SC and Freddie Lee Moorer of Reevesville, SC. He also leaves to cherish fond memories a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, other relatives, and friends. Marcus Elmore, an extended nephew, of St. George, SC and Felicia Cougar, an extended niece, of Reevesville, SC.
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