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Official Obituary of

Merlin Eugene Riley, Jr.

October 1, 1950 ~ January 15, 2023 (age 72) 72 Years Old

Merlin Riley, Jr. Obituary

Merlin Eugene Riley, Jr., 72, of Cowden, IL, passed away on Sunday, January 15, 2023, in HSHS St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, IL.

Merlin was born on October 1, 1950, in Shelbyville, the son of Merlin and Wanda (Lewis) Riley, Sr. He was a 1968 graduate of Cowden-Herrick High School. He married Debra Bishop in December 1967 and they were blessed with 49 years of marriage before her passing on September 21, 2017. Merlin worked as a union electrician for many years.

He is survived by his daughter, Lori Jean Riley of Sigel; son, Troy Riley of Cowden; 14 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; two brothers: Eric Riley and Michael Riley; two sisters: Lola Marie Walker and Trisha Irene West; stepsister, Alta Leona (Jerry-Leon) of Cowden and two nephews: Jerry Lee Clutter and Cory J. Clutter.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and son, Michael Shannon Riley.

In keeping with Merlin’s wishes, no services will be held. Lockart-Green Funeral Home in Cowden is assisting the family.

Family and friends are invited to light a candle or share a story in his honor at www.lockartgreenfuneralhome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Merlin Eugene Riley, Jr., please visit our floral store.