Wayne Riley Sr.

RILEY, Wayne, age 80, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, February 27, 2025.

Born on May 11, 1944, in Hamilton, Ohio, the son of Warren G. and Marie (Edwards). On May 15, 1962, in Leslie County, Kentucky, he married the love of his life, Edna (Bowman), with whom he shared a life for 53 years, until her passing in 2015.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his five children; Tina (John) Lee of Georgia, Rhonda Furginson, Lisa (Bill) Russo, Theresa (William) Floyd, and Wayne (Cindy) Riley Jr., all of Hamilton; eleven grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Marty (Charlotte) Riley of Hamilton, Ohio.

In 1969, Wayne and Edna established Wayne’s Garage on Pleasant Avenue in Lindenwald, Ohio—a business that became a cornerstone of the community, known not only for honest and expert car repairs but also as a welcoming place for great coffee and conversation.

Wayne’s passion for automobiles was evident from an early age, earning him recognition in Good Guys Magazine for building a car from the frame up. This also lead to winning First Place at the Cavalcade of Customs in 2017 for his masterful work on his 1957 Chevy.

A hardworking and honest businessman, Wayne served the Butler County Sheriff’s Department maintaining their fleet. He was deeply committed to his craft, and his customers—many of whom had trusted him since the day he opened his shop; knew they could count on his skill and integrity.

Beyond his love for cars, Wayne had a deep passion for horses, which he shared with his children and grandchildren, teaching them to ride and drive at a young age. He was generous with his time and knowledge; always willing to lend a hand to those in need, whether it was helping a stranded driver get back on the road or offering shelter or a meal to family and friends during a difficult time.

Wayne contributed to his community, from bringing Santa into town on his rollback truck for the annual parade, hosting various fundraisers for great causes and much more.

Above all, Wayne was a man of character—honest, kind, and hardworking. His legacy will live on through the lessons and wisdom he passed down, the stories shared by those who loved him and the countless lives he touched; he left a mark on the community.

Wayne is preceded in death by his parents, as well as his brothers, Earl, Clyde, and Lonnie Riley, and sisters, Faye Coffee, Frances Riley, Chaney Cochran, Nancy Caldwell and Carolyn Lovett-Stone.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Wayne’s granddaughters, Tiffany and Toni Baker, for the loving care they provided their Pap in his time of need. Special thanks also go to Bethesda Tri-Health Cancer Institute, particularly Dr. Edward Crane, Heather, and the incredible nurses and staff for their compassionate care, as well as Queen City Hospice for their support in his final days.

Wayne Riley’s memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be missed!

Visitation will be held Thursday, March 6, 2025 from 5 – 8PM at the Avance Funeral Home and Crematory, 4976 Winton Road, Fairfield, OH, 45014.  Funeral to be held Friday morning at 1130AM at the funeral home.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please direct your memorial contributions to Stahlheber Baptist Church, 1800 Stahlheber Rd., Hamilton, OH, 45013.  www.avancefuneralhome.com