Mother Thelma Riley

We gather today to honor and celebrate the life of a remarkable woman, Thelma Lee Edwards-Riley,
who was born on July 10th, 1930, in Holly Hill, South Carolina, to Regina and David Daley. A daughter of
the South, Thelma brought with her the values of hard work, resilience, compassion, and grace
throughout her 94 years of life.
Thelma was a woman of quiet strength and enduring love. She found joy in the simple and honest labor
of working in her yard, tending lovingly to her plants and flowers. Her garden was not just a patch of
earth—it was a reflection of her spirit: nurturing, patient, and always blooming with life. Just as she
cultivated her plants, she poured care and attention into the lives of those around her.
Her kindness was a steady presence to everyone who knew her. Thelma had a heart always ready to
help. Whether someone needed a comforting word, a helping hand, or just a listening ear, she was
there—without hesitation and without expectation. She gave of herself freely, a quiet but powerful force of
support for family, friends, and neighbors alike.
Above all, Thelma was devoted to her family. She cared deeply for her two children, Martha Stocker and
Calvin Riley. Her love for them was steadfast, and her guidance and wisdom will remain a lasting legacy
in their lives. Though she has now rejoined her beloved daughter Martha in eternal peace, her spirit lives
on in the memories they shared.
She leaves behind her loving son, Calvin Riley, who carries forward her values and her strength. She is
also survived by her cherished granddaughter, Detra Stocker, and her treasured grandchildren: Kristin
Riley, Angela Riley-Toliver, Kaylon Riley, and Kameron Riley. Each of them carries a part of Thelma’s
legacy—in their kindness, their resilience, and their love for family.
Thelma was also blessed with many great-grandchildren who will continue to carry her memory
forward: Pesante Stocker, Collin Riley, Zoey Boykin, Michael Toliver Jr., Kason Riley, and Ivey
Boykin. Through them, her legacy of warmth, love, and quiet strength lives on.
As we say goodbye to Thelma, let us remember her with the love she gave so freely. Let us keep her
memory alive through the acts of kindness we show, the care we offer others, and the strength we find in
one another.
Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure. She was loved beyond words and will be missed beyond
measure.
Rest in peace, Thelma Lee Edwards-Riley.

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