Dorothy Riley

ROCKY MOUNT – Dorothy Riley, age 100, passed away peacefully in her sleep on May 10, 2026, of natural causes. She was born on April 18, 1926, in Greenville, North Carolina (Pitt County), the youngest of three children born to the late Lonnie Dupre and Sarah Moore- Dupre. Affectionately known as “Lady Bird,” Dorothy received her education at Greenville High School, a segregated Black-only school at the time.

Dorothy married her late husband, Robert Riley, a career military man. Following her older sisters, the couple relocated north to New York City and settled in Newark, New Jersey across the river while Robert was deployed. It was there that Dorothy gave birth to her two daughters, the late Rosa Riley (1947–1954) and Barbara Riley Rumph- FoFana.

Purposeful and driven to support her family, Dorothy worked for decades in a textile factory assembling garment accessories, including zippers and other clothing components. After the factory closed, she transitioned into healthcare, completing her career as a Health Aide at the VA Facility in Rahway, New Jersey.

An excellent cook, Dorothy was well known for her shrimp fried rice, stewed rabbit, and liver and onions. She was a loving and caring woman who deeply cherished her family. A God-fearing woman, Dorothy was community-minded and warmly regarded by neighbors and all whom she encountered. She was an avid member of First Baptist Church of Rahway and greatly enjoyed fellowshipping with her church family.

Dorothy is survived by her daughter, Barbara; three grandchildren, Keith, Melvin, and Isatu; three great-grandchildren, Yalitza, Racheal, and Javari; and three great-great-grandchildren, Nasir, Lauren, and Yenzel. She is also survived by her niece, Beverly Johnson; her great-niece, Rosalyn Smith; and many cousins, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Dorothy Riley will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Services will be immediate family only. 

Arrangements entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 661 English Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.johnsonfuneralsandcremations.com