HUDSON FALLS – Hugh “Jim” Riley, 72, recently of Glens Falls, passed away Tuesday, July 11, 2023, following a long illness.
Born in Albany on February 16, 1951, Jim was the son of the late Hugh W. and Maude R. (O’Neal) Riley.
Jim was a graduate of Hudson Falls High School.
He married the late Jeanne Boucher on November 30, 1971, in Hudson Falls and started a family on Glen Lake with a daughter, Jennifer and then their son, Chris.
Jim spent his early years working alongside his dad at Riley Brothers Funeral Home in Hudson Falls. He was employed at Gordon Welding in Glens Falls for many years. Following his employment at Gordon Welding, Jim was an independent contractor working throughout Warren and Washington Counties.
In his younger days, Jim played semi-pro football for the Glens Falls Wings. He was an avid water and downhill skier. Jim was a member and President of the Adirondack Broomball League in Queensbury. He was a well-known local musician and professional bassist playing in many local rock bands. Jim really enjoyed terrorizing the residents of Glen Lake with his jetboat.
Jim’s hobbies included model railroading, metal detecting, and photography. He was also a wonderful woodworker. Whatever Jim did, he put immense pride in his work. Most of all, Jim enjoyed the special times he was able to spend with his family.
In addition to his parents and wife, Jim was predeceased by his Aunt Loretta Riley; and his special grand puppy, Tomaz, who he enjoyed spending time with.
Jim is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Queiroz; his son, Chris Riley; granddaughters Sarah Gallagher, Ellie, and Evie Riley; his grandsons, Isac Queiroz, and Charlie Riley; his significant other, Carol Sperry; and his longtime childhood friends, Terry Gordon and Michael Woodell.
A graveside service will be conducted on Thursday, July 20, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at Union Cemetery in the town of Fort Edward.
Jim’s family would like to thank High Peaks Hospice for all their support during this challenging time.
Memorial donations in Jim’s name may be made to High Peaks Hospice at 1247 Dix Ave. Hudson Falls, NY 12839.
Jim was a terrific man who loved his family. The world is less bright today since we lost his light.
❤️
Rest in peace my friend!
A hug to all the family and friends present.
We will miss you!
Jim, we clashed many times during our “winner take all” tackle football games @ Glen Lake, your fierceness to win along with your cheerful banter made every game fun. RIP
Phil Sullivan
I graduated with Jim and to be honest, he was my first crush. He was a kind, full of life kind of guy. RIP and say hello to our other classmates waiting for you.
Doc and I are very sorry your family’s loss. May his memory be a blessing to you all.
How to describe you? Compassionate, stubborn to the nth, loving, talented in so many ways and my best friend. No one can comprehend the complicated history we had, but there was never a bad goodbye. You were always my person and I was yours, it just took years to finally get it right. I will see you again one day and we can continue our walk into infinity. Maybe I’m Amazed!!!!
I went to high school with Jim and remember him to be a great guy! My condolences to the family and friends.
So many thoughts come to mind when I think of Jim. I’ve known who he was since I was a kid on Glen Lake. I know he had some hard times over the years yet I’m grateful for when I’d meet up with him somewhere and talk, no matter what the situation..
A long time ago there were crazy adventures and experiences; serious discussions as well. I enjoyed seeing and hearing him play in several bands throughout the area, and who could forget the crankin tunes from that Trans Am and the Glen Lake house!
Broom ball ! Jim was….. “MR. BROOMBALL” That sport was his heart and soul. Watching him and his team was alot of fun. I last saw Jim at the service for his fellow Broom ball team mate ” ,Nick”, in March 2022. I just knew he would be there to pay his respects. My most memorable “Jim adventure” was my one and ONLY ride in the ” Death Probe” jet boat ! I prayed we’d make it back to the dock safely.
Thanks for the memories and your friendship, “Riley”. I’ll never forget your laugh, voice and sense of humor. You were definitely one of a kind.
My deepest condolences to the entire family. Jim will be missed.
Had many good times as a teeenager with Jim.
Field parties and played in bands together.
John Butto
RIP jim so many memories out train watching you always made me laugh and when you come up to the house to help me out with some projects I had going on always willing to give a helping hand I know it’s been a couple of years but Karen and I always appreciated everything you did our condolences to your family keep em laughing my friend
My condolences to the family. I had so much fun with Mr. Broomball. He used me as a tester for his various surf boards behind his boat. I think back at being a little crazy for getting behind the boat when he was driving. But that laugh was worth it. We played many competitive broomball games together having so much fun and a lot of winning, Homestead Broomball! Partying afterwards was the best. RIP Jim.
Lapper