George Dale Riley

George Dale Riley

1956-2024

George Dale Riley, age 68, died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Los Chavez on Nov. 28, 2024.

He was raised in Bosque Farms. George took great pride in his long-standing family history of homesteading in the central New Mexico area.

He was a loyal member of Local Union 412 for more than 30 years and spent many years working in the four corners area of northern New Mexico.

George never met a stranger. His family would often joke that he knew someone no matter where he went. He will be remembered by his family and friends for his generous spirit, his ability to help fix problems, his dad jokes, and his love of wearing overalls.

He is survived by his children, Katie Quesnell, Eva Blaylock and Shawn Riley; his partner of 35 years, Susie Quesnell; his sisters, Jessica Simpson (Don) and Patricia Kime; his nieces and nephews, Jolene Simpson, Brandon Simpson, Cassie Wandersee and Gabe Wandersee; his many aunts, uncles and cousins; his Quesnell family; his dog, Cricket; and many cherished friends, including the Kessler and Smith families.

He is preceded in death by his brother, Chester Allen Riley; his mother, Edna LaVera “Vera” Riley; his grandmother, Ruby Ann Bailey; his father, George Fred Riley; and his union brother and longtime friend, Dave Evans.

A celebration of life will be held at Peralta Methodist Church from 3-6 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 17. Attendees are encouraged to wear bib overalls, camo, or other “George attire.”

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 18, at Estancia Memorial Cemetery, officiated by Larry Chambers. A reception will follow at the First Baptist Church of Mountainair.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the distressed members fund at Local Union 412 in George’s name, 510 San Pedro Dr. SE, Albuquerque, NM, 87108, 505-265-1513.