Valerie Yvette Riley

Valerie Yvette Riley age 75 of Oakley, Ohio was born April 1, 1947, to the late Abdul Robb Jr. and Julia Mae Brown Robb. Valerie was one of eight children who were raised in Evanston to a household built on excellent manners, an integral work ethic, and a high regard for education. With Abdul Jr. as an electrical engineer and Julia as a homemaker to a dynamic and busy family, After graduating from Withrow High School, Valerie went on to work at Cincinnati Bell where she was sure to be become a reputable Logistics Operator for over 30 years. After years of dedicated service as an RC-MAC Valerie went on to retire in 1996. One of her most rewarding roles at Cincinnati Bell was being on the team that programmed the tram system at the Greater Cincinnati Airport.

Valerie was known for being humorous, practical, a stellar seamstress, authentic and family-centric, reasons why her late ex-husband and high school sweetheart, Howard Riley, fell in love with her. To their union was blessed one beautiful daughter, Andrea Denise Riley-Gable. Valerie’s pride and joy took even more shape when her only grand-daughter, Endya Lauren Riley, graced the world in 1988.

When Valerie was away from work, her infectious laugh could be heard at bowling allies across the city where she and some of her friends pioneered one of the first, all-women bowling leagues of the east side of Cincinnati; DJ’s 5. Valerie was such a great bowler that she actually was selected to bowl on a television show called Bowling for Dollars in the 70’s .

In addition to the sport of bowling, Valerie loved the Cincinnati Bengals. During the fall and winter months, Valerie would never miss college football Saturdays and NFL Sundays. Her love for football was just as strong as her love for music. Not only did Valerie sing in the choirs as a child, but she always grooved to the sounds of Frankie Beverly & Maze, Nancy Wilson and Smokey Robinson; to name a few. Of the traditions Valerie held close, celebrating Kwanzaa was one she started many years ago in the 70’s before it was even popular, as the appreciation for cultural heritage and values were very important to her. Her appreciation for her roots and cultural heritage were passed on to her daughter and siblings.

Valerie was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Michael Robb Sr., and nephew, Michael Robb Jr. Valerie leaves to cherish precious memories and to celebrate her life, one daughter, Andrea Riley-Gable (Ken), one grand-daughter, Endya Riley, and six siblings, Abdul III, Derek (Caroline), Melanie Covington (Jimmy), Ansul (Tammy), Deborah, and Julian; and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

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