Sara Lois Riley

February 27, 1927 - July 31, 2020

Sara Lois Stevens Riley, 93, of Florence, SC, formerly of Blythewood, SC, died peacefully on Friday, July 31, 2020 at The Heritage Home, Florence, SC. Born February 27, 1927 in Blythewood, she was a daughter of the late Wallace Stevens and Mary Stevens Woods. Ms. Riley attended and graduated from business school before joining the workforce at The RL Bryan Company. She married Cecil D. Riley, Sr and started a family, who she loved dearly. Ms. Riley enjoyed taking care of her family and will be remembered for happily singing or whistling a tune as she cooked. She was a loving grandmother, who spent special time with each and every one of her grandchildren. A longtime member of Beulah United Methodist Church, Ms. Riley was involved with different church ministries, to include the prison outreach ministry. An avid gardener, Sara Lois could name, give the origin, and talk about any flower or plant. Survivors include her son, E. Dean Riley (Kay); daughters, Sara Chisholm (Frank), Susan Darby, Sandra Kelly (Todd); grandchildren, Ronny, Lynette, Brian, Doug, Lauren, Earl, Chad, Kelsey, Austin; great grandchildren, Brandon, Eric, Grace, Will, Emily, Davis, Jay, Sara; and a great-great grandchild, Matthew. In addition to her parents, Sara Lois was preceded in death by her loving husband of 55 years, Cecil D. Riley, Sr.; son, Cecil David Riley, Jr.; son-in-law, Chris Darby; brother, Dan H. Stevens and sister, Mildred S. Thigpen. A graveside service will be held 2 o’clock, Tuesday, August 4, 2020, at Greenlawn Memorial Park. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family. Due to COVID-19 concerns, the use of masks and social distancing practices are strongly encouraged. A livestream will be available by visiting https://www.shivesfuneralhome.com/current-webcast/. The family would like to give a special acknowledgement to the care givers at The Heritage Home, for their service and devotion to Sara Lois. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the charity of one’s choice.