Gene Riley

Gene Riley, 86, of Hot Springs, passed peacefully into his eternal life on March 10th after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. He is survived by his wife Lisa, children Gene Riley, Jr. (Debbie), Dianne Atkinson (Walt), and Nathan Riley; three grandchildren Travis Riley (Shan), Shannon Craig (Tim) and Mahriah Atkinson; seven great-grandchildren, as well as, his extended family. Gene spent his career in construction and proudly contributed to the structure of many buildings across Arkansas and the surrounding states. Starting as a young man, he was a respected and valued partner of many general contractors throughout his career. Gene loved his family and many friends. He will be remembered for his enormous smile and generous spirit. Gene could be found most weekends sitting on the front of his houseboat, drinking coffee, and hosting dock neighbors as they discussed current events, the weather, and life matters. He also loved music, boot scootin', Christmas lights, and was affectionately known as Mr. Christmas by his friends and neighbors. A celebration of his life will be held at St Luke's Episcopal Church in Hot Springs on Friday, March 17th at 10 a.m. with a reception to follow in the parish hall. Honorary pallbearers will be his brothers in law, James Montgomery and John Dale, Terry and Donna Boone, Bill Frost, Aaron Caldwell, Gary Wilson, Jerry Owens, and Walt Atkinson. A very special thanks to his caregivers, Clarence and Debreria Redic. You are truly angels on earth. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Caring Place, 101 Quapaw Ave, Hot Springs, Ark. 71901 or to St Luke's, 228 Spring Street, Hot Springs, Ark. 71901. Online guest book and tributes are available at www.GrossFuneralHome.com.