Charles P. Riley Jr.

Rye - It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Charles P. Riley, Jr., who died on October 8, 2024, in Rye, New Hampshire, at the age of 92. Born on August 25, 1932, in Lowell, Massachusetts, Charlie was a cherished son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Charlie was predeceased by his parents, Charles P. Riley, Sr. and Helen V. (Normile) Riley; his beloved wife, Phyllis C. (Ciesla) Riley, whom he married in July 1956; dear friend Patricia Macdonald; his sister, Helen Marie (Riley) LeDoux; and brother-in-law Henry E. LeDoux. He is survived by his loving children, Kathleen (David) Lakowski, Elizabeth (Lawrence) Ball, and Charles P. Riley, III (Kristine). He also leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, 3 nephews, 1 niece, 3 grandnieces, and 1 grandnephew, all of whom will carry his memory in their hearts. A graduate of Lowell High School, Class of 1950, Charlie earned his BS and MS in Chemistry from Lowell Technological Institute, now known as the University of Massachusetts Lowell. He furthered his education with the Program for Management Development at Harvard University in 1970. He served in the U.S. Air Force ROTC and was stationed in Dublin, California, from 1955 to 1957. Over a distinguished 38-year career in the chemical industry, Charlie began as a research chemist, advancing through various roles in process and project manufacturing, ultimately retiring as Vice President of Regulatory Affairs. His career took him from Chelmsford, Massachusetts, to Northfield, Illinois, in the late 1970s, where he completed his tenure with the Stepan Company. His research contributions led to the development of 6 U.S. and 3 foreign patents, and he was honored as an Emeritus Member of the American Chemical Society. A passionate golfer, Charlie's love for the sport began with caddying at Long Meadow Golf Club and continued throughout his retirement. He enjoyed playing with friends, business associates, and family, especially his grandchildren, and proudly achieved four holes-in-one, each witnessed by loved ones. Family was at the heart of Charlie’s life. In retirement, he traveled to the Midwest every holiday to be with his family and attend important events in his grandchildren's lives. He cherished summers spent at his beach house at Jenness Beach, creating lasting memories with loved ones. A history buff, storyteller, and well-read man, Charlie viewed life through an optimistic lens; his cup was always two-thirds full. He faced each day with a smile, regarding life as a precious gift. Charlie authored two books, collections of short stories inspired by his life and local interests. He was actively involved in his community, participating in the Wentworth-by-the-Sea Country Club, the St. Theresa's Men's Club, and the Rye Public Library Military Book Club. The family wishes to extend special thanks to the wonderful caregivers at Webster at Rye, where Charlie lived for the last five years, and to his dedicated caregivers, Joseph and Jackie, who each provided over three years of loving service. Calling hours will be held from 4-7 PM on Sunday, October 13, 2024, at Remick and Gendron Funeral Home-Crematory in Hampton, NH. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Theresa’s Church in Rye, NH, at 11:00 AM on Monday, October 14, 2024. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Charlie's memory to Catholic Charities New Hampshire by clicking here or the Friends of Rye Public Library by clicking here Charles P. Riley, Jr. leaves behind a legacy of love, intellect, and generosity that will continue to inspire all who knew him. Rest in peace, Charlie.

Charles P. Riley Jr.

August 25, 1932 - October 8, 2024