Dorothy E Riley's Obituary
Dorothy Evelyn (Scribner) Riley, age 91, of Centerville, passed away March 28, 2026 at Golden Age Care Center in Centerville.
Born on January 9, 1935, in Pleasant Township, Monroe County, Iowa, Dorothy was the cherished daughter of Virgil and Dorotheda (Cashatt) Scribner. On October 18, 1952, she joyfully united in marriage with Dwight Wendell Riley, embarking on a lifelong partnership filled with love, laughter, and devotion to family. To this union, three children were born, Randell, Tony and Sandra.
A devoted homemaker, Dorothy found joy in creating warmth and comfort for her loved ones. Her hands were never idle-whether she was crafting, making jewelry, or curating her ever-growing rock collection, she approached every task with patience, creativity, and care. Her dinosaur footprint and small personal museum brought interest and new knowledge to children of the community.
Dorothy also had a heart for service. She dedicated her time to volunteering and was a proud member of the Hospital Auxiliary in both Ottumwa and Centerville, where she touched countless lives with her kindness and generosity.
Family was the center of Dorothy's world. She cherished every gathering, every shared story, and every simple moment of togetherness. Her legacy of love, creativity, and community-minded spirit will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.
Left to cherish Dorothy's memory are her children, Randell (Cathy) Riley, Tony (Becky) Rawls-Riley, and Sandra (David) Riley-Miller; her adopted by heart daughter, Vicki Butler; her grandchildren, Mackenzie Riley, Beth Riley and Dawn Riley; several great grandchildren; as well as several extended family members.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, Dwight Riley; her parents, Virgil and Dorotheda Scribner; her grandson, Nathan Riley; and her brother, Raymond Scribner.
Visitation will be held Thursday, April 2, 2026 at Thomas Funeral Home in Centerville, with the family greeting friends from 5:00PM-7:00PM. Burial will be held at a later date at Eddyville Cemetery. Memorials in honor of Dorothy may be made to Furever Friends Rescue, and may be mailed to Thomas Funeral Home, ATTN: Riley Family, 501 North 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at www.thomasfh.com or www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome .
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