James R Riley, Sr.

A Native of Memphis, TN, James moved to Michigan in 1940. After 3 years in the U.S. Army, he Graduated from the Wayne State University School of Business in 1950. He founded Riley Funeral Home in 1957.

He is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, a Trustee of Trinity AME Church for 35 years, Elks Lodge for 40 years, Masonic Order F&Am for 45 years, Michigan and National Funeral Director's Association for 49 years, and an NAACP Golden Heritage Member.

His honors include: Sigma Upsilon Omega Man of the Year 1959 and 1991 and Citizen of the year 1991, Lansing Pioneers Award 1990, Lansing School District Award 1971, City of Lansing Award 1980, State of Michigan Community Service Award 1981 and Black Business Association Award 1966.

James R Riley, Jr.

James graduated from the Wayne State University with a certificate of Mortuary Science in 1976. That year he joined our firm as a Mortician and embalmer. 17 years later, in 1993, he added owner, chief executive officer and manager to his duties. James is responsible for all aspects of funeral service, including embalming, family interaction, marketing, supervision of employees and many other roles.

His memberships include: Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, National Funeral Directors Association, National Funeral Directors and Morticians Association, Michigan Funeral Directors Association, Independent Family Funeral Home Association, International Funeral Associates Association, Michigan Embalmers Society, Free and Accepted Masons, Prince Hall Affiliation, Trinity African Methodist Episcopal Church and Sankofa Shule Academy School Board.