Barry Riley Obituary

MSgt (USAF Ret) Barry L. Riley, age 77, resident of Rising Fawn, Georgia, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, July 24, 2025. Mr. Riley, son of the late John Carlisle Riley and Ruth Janet Smith Riley, was born August 4, 1947 in Kingsport, Tennessee. He was retired from the U.S. Air Force where he served his country honorably during and after the Vietnam Era Conflict, for over 22 years. While in the military, he was awarded several medals and ribbons to include the Meritorious Service Medal; Air Force Commendation Medal (1OLC); Air Force Achievement Medal (1OLC); and Vietnam Service Medal. After he retired from the military, he began a career with Canon Equipment in Chattanooga, where he faithfully worked for over 20 years. Mr. Riley was an active member and Sunday School teacher of Lookout Mountain Cross Connection Church. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and playing games. While in the military, he coached baseball. For many years he also was heavily involved with his kid's sports (particularly baseball and softball), many times traveling to different cities. Mr. Riley always looked forward to taking trips with his wife and family. While at home, many would see him playing card games; watching FOX News and sporting events; and listening to both oldies music and Southern Gospel (he loved the Gaithers). The family remembers him as one who was loved by many; loved and cared for others; and a person who never met a stranger. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Sherry Gale Meetz; a brother, Doug W. Riley; and a grandson, Preston Heath Riley. Mr. Riley is survived by his wife of 55 years, Carolyn Riley; one daughter, Shawna Lynn Riley; two sons, Joseph (Tonya) Riley and Brian (Wanda) Riley; four grandchildren, Destiny Riley, Austin Riley, Deven Smith, and Praveen Sidella; two great-grandchildren, Hayden Riley and Brynleigh Riley; many nieces; nephews; other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be held at the Chapel of W.L. Wilson & Sons Funeral Home, 555 West Cloud Springs Road, Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, 12 noon with Reverend Gene Strauss and Reverend Cecil Gravitt officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at Chattanooga National Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home prior to the service on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 from 10 am till 12 noon. Arrangements by W.L. Wilson & Sons Funeral Home, 555 West Cloud Springs Road, Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia.