Mary Colleen Riley

Mary Colleen Riley, known lovingly as "Sam" or "Pixie" to those closest to her, passed away on August 8, 2026, in Normal, Illinois. She was 76 years old. Born on June 1, 1950, in St. Louis, Missouri, Colleen lived a life marked by compassion, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to serving others.

Colleen graduated from college with a degree in business education and went on to build a career defined by care and dedication. She worked as a teacher, shaping young minds with both intellect and warmth, and later served as a director of Hospice, bringing comfort and dignity to individuals and families during their most vulnerable moments. Her professional life was a natural extension of who she was: a woman who valued compassion, intelligence, and social justice, and who lived those values every single day.

Those who knew Colleen will forever remember her infectious laugh and her genuine joy for life. She had a rare ability to light up a room and make others feel seen and welcomed. In her youth, she treasured the time she spent traveling out west with her young son, collecting friends and experiences along the way, adventures that remained among her fondest memories throughout her life.

Above all, Colleen was a loving and devoted mother, daughter, sister, and friend. She is survived by her son, Zac Yates; his wife Hannah (Tambrini) Yates; their children Liberty and Calvin; her daughter, Jenny Riley; her brother, John Thomas Judge; and her sister, Cheryl Mullen. She was preceded in death by her parents, John Robert Judge and Geraldine Ann Judge (Frillman); her brother, Robert Patrick Judge; and her sister, Joan Susan Judge.

Colleen's deep and abiding Christian faith was the foundation of her life. She shared God's light with everyone whose lives she touched, and her kindness, generosity, and grace were living testaments to that faith. Her family takes comfort in knowing she now rests in the embrace of the Lord she served so faithfully.

A memorial service will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Bloomington Normal in September 2026. A specific date has not yet been set. For additional information, please contact Jenny Riley at jsriley123@gmail.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to World Central Kitchen in Colleen's memory.

To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com

Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton is in charge of arrangements.