LCDR Paul Riley USN '48 (RET.), blessed with 99 years, took his final catapult launch toward heaven on October 28th,2025. He was born on June 11th, 1926, in Bennettsville, S.C. to Jack and Cornelia Newton Riley. Both grandfathers were Confederate veterans, and two ancestors fought the British.

Paul was an Eagle Scout, home guardsman, High School Valedictorian, and was voted best all-around male. Finishing Severn School in 1944, he entered USNA in the 13* Company, ultimately becoming a "3-striper" as Battalion XO. He graduated in just three years in 1947.

Exiled to the Orient, he served aboard SALAMONIE (AO-26) 18 months outside the country. Relief came with a year aboard the MISSOURI (BB-63) and then finally flight training, finishing in Hellcats in 1951. Without choice, he joined VS-831 flying TBMs/Afs from CVEs/CVLs. After repeated requests, Paul was transferred in 1953 to VF-172 flying twin-jet Banshees from WASP (CVA-18), initially in rough Operation Mariner off Greenland, then enforcing the Korean armistice. Following near involvement in Indochina, the air group returned, having crossed the equator and circled the globe.

Next came NAS New York training reserves in Corsairs, Cougars, and T-33's for three years. Having failed as an admiral's aide, Paul became a success as VF-14's Maintenance Officer operating complex Demons from ROOSEVELT (CVA-42). The squadron won Battle E and Safety awards while introducing the Sparrow Ill missile. Paul earned a postgraduate BSAe (Aeronautical Engineering) degree in 1961. During the summer field trip, he met Evelyn Vincent. They married after graduation and honeymooned in Europe. His next task was in Norfolk, testing and evaluating electronic countermeasures and automatic carrier landing systems. His last tour was at BuWeps as Project Officer for Sabreliner and other trainers.

Personal accomplishments included Airline Transport Pilot rating, GWU MA degree, and carrier re-qualification completing 273 arrested landings. With 3400 hours' pilot time he retired, declining an active-duty offer. He was the author of an illustrated book, "Near Misses: A Naval Aviator's Story" which provides an interesting background in aviation and personal life. His book remains available on Amazon for those who wish to share his life and legacy.

Civilian employment included management positions with four now defunct airlines from Phoenix to Houston to Miami. Water proximity in Miami, Fla. facilitated "Life of Riley" sailing. Paul earned commercial seaplane, rotorcraft and flight instructor ratings. Returning to Houston, he joined a Space Center contractor, becoming a Certified Plant engineer. Retiring at age 71, he became a substitute teacher, consultant and devoted time to family, travel, flying, church and tennis.

Survivors include Paul's loving wife, Eveyln Vincent Riley of 64 years and children Mary Riley Pettigrew (Kevin), Miles Riley (USNA 86) (Adrienne), Jack Riley (Elizabeth), Will Riley (Heather), eight Grandchildren, four Great Grandchildren, a Niece, a Sister-in-law and two Brother-in-laws.

Serving as pallbearers are Miles Riley, Jack Riley, Will Riley, Kevin Pettigrew, Courtland Pettigrew, Jackson Riley.

A life of honor, a legacy of love - now home with our Lord