Jessica Leigh Riley

Jessica Leigh Riley

July 11, 1990 – June 16, 2024
Jessica Leigh Riley of Raleigh passed away on June 16, 2024 at the age of 33.

Born on July 11, 1990 in Raleigh, NC to parents, Jerry and Cynthia Riley, Jessica attended grade school in Cary and graduated from Cary High School in 2008. With a desire to help others from a young age and a love for the movie Legally Blonde, she was inspired to pursue a career in law. After graduating from Appalachian State University with a Bachelors in History in 2012, she continued her education by completing Meredith College’s paralegal program.

Jessica was a bright spirit and wonderful friend who was accepting of anyone who had the pleasure of meeting her. She was honest and funny, and although she could sometimes be blunt, that was just her way of letting you know that she loved you. When Jessica was younger, she loved playing soccer. She was always proud of the life lessons that sports taught her, such as how to be a good friend and teammate. When she wasn’t on the field she could be found in the stands loudly supporting local teams. Jessica, an avid and talented cook, would host “family dinner” in college where she would cook an extravagant meal for her closest friends. Her favorite night was Italian night, held every Thursday. Jessica was well-versed in many topics and could hold a conversation with anyone. She was a huge Harry Potter fan and enjoyed all things “Bravo”. She also kept up with college basketball (Go Heels!), football, and current events. Jessica loved traveling whenever she had the chance. One of her favorite trips was exploring Rome with some of her best friends in college where they marveled at all the ancient history. Recently Jessica and her boyfriend Alex enjoyed exploring different historical coastal towns and dining in their local seafood restaurants.

She is preceded in death by her father, Jerry Lee Riley.

Always remembered and survived by her mother, Cindy Riley; significant other, Alex Wilson; sister, Terra Evans; brother-in-law, Jerry Evans; nephews, Aidan and Austin Evans; and all the friends she made along the way.

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions can be donated via Venmo: @Alex-Wilson-373 or Cash App: $alexwils596