Mary Lou Riley

June 16, 1930 - October 5, 2017

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Mary Lou was born on June 16, 1930, in Ft. Worth, Texas, to Peck and Dale McGowan. They moved from Ft. Worth to Paducah in the early 1930’s and to Lubbock in the late 30’s so that the McGowan children could attend Lubbock schools and later Texas Tech University. Mary Lou graduated from Lubbock High School in 1947 and Texas Tech and 1951.Mary Lou was married to Robert W. Riley on January 26, 1951. After teaching math in LISD for a few years, she and Robert raised 3 daughters: Rebecca, Patricia, and Janie. Mary Lou was an active member of Christ Lutheran Church for more than 60 years. She enjoyed singing in the choir and teaching Sunday school. She was an avid aviation enthusiast and was an instrument-rated private pilot. Mary Lou and Robert worked together in their company, Brunson Brick & Stone, for 30 years before retiring in 2003. They spent their remaining years together at Biggin Hill near Shallowater, where they enjoyed flying and spending time with family.She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, Jane Dale McGowan Cole, and a brother, William McGowan.Mary Lou is survived by her husband, Robert Riley; daughters Rebecca Riley and husband Roger Nubile, Patricia Arledge and husband Craig, and Janie Kennedy and husband Ken; and four grandchildren, Scott Hall, Emily Chauncey, Kavi Kardos, and Riley Kennedy.

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Mary Lou was such a fun loving person and lived life to the fullest. She was always such a joy to be around and I have certainly enjoyed my business as well as personal relationship with her and her family over the years. She will be greatly missed by those who have known her and my thoughts and prayers are with her many loved ones. Rest in peace Mary Lou.

Mary Lou was so full of life and enjoyed every day as if it were her last. She will be missed dearly by her family and friends. I have so enjoyed my business as well as personal relationship with Mary Lou and her family over the years. My thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones. Rest in peace.

What a tremendous loss. Such a special lady and dear friend. We will cherish all the great memories of our friendship and relations through the years with Bob and Mary Lou. Two of Texas' best people, who have always been such a pleasure to spend time with and do business with, on the ground or in the air. How they loved it when we flew the new King Air down and picked them up to come see everyone at the plant in Oklahoma. Had a great visit and flew them back to Lubbock, and I can still hear Mary Lou saying how much she loved to hear the landing gear coming up after takeoff. How we will miss that great smile and sweet spirit.

Mary Lou was a wonderful lady, friend and pilot. She was an excellent and conscientious and above all, safe pilot. She was always interested in learning everything she could about flying. I enjoyed flying many hours with her in her Cessna 3144R.

So so sorry. She was a very special person. Brightened up the day to be around her. Cannot tell you how much of a positive influence she had on those she never even knew noticed. She was an inspiration. God bless you all.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Have enjoyed visiting with Mary Lou for the past 6 years whi,e we walked on the underwater treadmills. She shared her life experiences and her deep love for her family. We will miss her sweet smile and encouraging words. May God be with your family as you go through this time of loss.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.