Marblehead, Massachusetts - Barbara M Riley, age 91, died on September 4, 2014 at home surrounded by her family after a brief illness.

Barb was born on July 21,923 in Iroquois Falls, Ontario, Canada. She spent her formative years in Toronto, Canada. She settled in Marblehead in 1950, with her then husband, Robert W Curley of Brookline. They subsequently had two children - Sheri Curley Shattuck and Peter B Curley, both of Marblehead.

In 1967 Barb married John F "Jack" Riley. They would go on to share nearly 25 wonderful years together until his death in 1992. From that marriage, Barb became loving stepmother to Jack's three children - Martha Riley Bauer of McAllister, Montana, Beth L Riley of Murphy, North Carolina and John T Riley who resides in Ipswich, MA.

Barbara was employed at Joe Greene Insurance Agency, Marblehead for many years until her retirement at age 62.

Barbara had a zest for life. She and Jack particularly loved travelling and sailing. She loved golf, the beach, skiing, gardening, bird watching, walking, theater, and was an avid reader. She was exceptionally kind, very political and hated suffering and war. Above all else, she loved her family and friends.

Barb was loved by everyone who knew her. They will miss her radiant smile, her beauty and poise, her laughter, sense of humour and her never-ending kindness and generosity. Her family and friends will miss her very much.

A celebration of Barbara Riley's life will be held on Saturday, October 18, from 2:00-4:00, at the Boston Yacht Club, 1 Front Street, Marblehead, MA. Please come and help us celebrate a life well lived. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Barb's name to The Massachusetts Audubon Society, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln, MA 01773 or Save the Children, 501 Kings Hwy E, Fairfield, CT 06825. For additional information or on line guest book please call 978-744-0497 or visit www.MurphyFuneralHome.com