Obituary of JJ Riley

JJ Riley (57) of Beach Park, IL, loving husband, son, brother, uncle and friend journeyed on to his heavenly home August 5, 2021. While he is now with all those that have gone before him, the impact of his loss will be to many. He had a heart of gold and was always willing to give a helping hand to anyone. If he was unable to help, he would supervise and assist where he could. There were no strangers in his life, only those he hadn’t met. An amazing man anyone would have been lucky to know. He didn't live a full life but he lived life to the fullest. JJ was born June 30, 1964, in Great Lakes, IL to John James Riley and Lorena Kay Riley (Frasher) and lived in Waukegan and graduated from Waukegan West in 1982. He eventually moved to Beach Park. JJ worked for the City of Waukegan in the water department for 23 years. He was part of the breakfast club, loved music, dining with friends and family, sports (Bears and Cubs but would support any local team once his teams were out of the running), range shooting, enjoyed the friendly neighborhood lawn competition, and he was always up for an adventure. JJ leaves behind his best friend and loving wife of 15 years, Joy Riley (Gibour), brother James Riley, sister Vicki Turner (James), many in-laws, nieces and nephews, surrogate uncle to many, his loyal companion canines Ellie, Lacey and furry feline babies. He was preceded in his journey home by his parents, sisters; Johnna Robinson (Pedro), Jeannette Vazquez, his first wife Jina Riley (Leafbald), father-in-law and dearest friend Earl Leafblad (Jean). On Friday, August 20, 2021, family and friends are welcomed to join in a final viewing at Congdon Funeral Home in Zion, IL from 5:00pm to 8:00pm. Casual attire. Chicago Bears/Cubs attire preferred, but any sports team acceptable. All are encouraged to provide memory of JJ to our guest book. With broken hearts, we say good-by to our JJ, who will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. JJ volunteered at Fat Cat Rescue fostering over 155 kittens until they found their forever homes. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Fat Cat Rescue, PO Box 153, North Chicago, IL 60064.