Thelma J. Riley

Thelma J. "Sally" Riley, of Canyon Day, Navajo County, Arizona passed away at her home surrounded by her family on August 25, 2014. She was 80. Thelma was born to her parents the late, Robert and June (Bonito) Johnson on January 25, 1934 in Canyon Day, Arizona. Thelma was employed for the Whiteriver Unified School District for 18 years as a teacher's aide. She loved the children she taught and many would often come to her for her guidance. To her nothing was more important than a good education. During the summer months, while school was out, she spent her time working for the United States Forest Service as a camp cook. A job she did for nearly 15 years. A wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and friend she will be missed dearly. She is survived by her husband, Jimmie Riley of Canyon Day; children, Erma Riley (Paul Bead) of Hondah, Arizona, Arnold Riley of Whiteriver, Arizona, Harold Riley (Berta) Riley of Phoenix, Arizona, Peggy Riley of Whiteriver, Shawna Thomas (Travis) of Mesa, Arizona and Stanita Cosay (Davison Antonio) of Whiteriver; 15 grandchildren 23 great-grandchildren; 7 great-great-grandchildren; sisters, Althea Ivins, May Loas and Irene Billy. She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Ronald Mike Riley; brother and sister-in-law, Reno and Rita Johnson and a sister, Dena Massey. A one night wake will be held 10:00AM Monday September 1, 2014 at the family home, 4913 S. Chief Ave., Canyon Day. Funeral services will be held 1:00PM Tuesday September 2, 2014 at the Canyon Day Miracle Church in Canyon Day. Interment will follow in the Canyon Day Cemetery in Canyon Day.