Waverly Community Mourns Passing of Beloved Resident Don Riley

Local icon and lifelong community servant dies at 99 after decades of service

Mar. 23, 2026 at 9:21pm

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Roger Donald "Don" Riley, a longtime resident of Waverly, Missouri, passed away on January 18, 2026 at the age of 99. Riley was a pillar of the Waverly community, serving in numerous civic roles over his lifetime including as a volunteer firefighter, school board member, city council member, and more. He was also an active member of the Waverly United Methodist Church and known for his love of the outdoors, creativity, and dedication to his family.

Why it matters

Don Riley's passing marks the end of an era for the tight-knit community of Waverly, where he was a beloved figure who dedicated decades of his life to public service and community involvement. His death is a significant loss for the town, which will remember him as an exemplary citizen and role model.

The details

Riley was born on August 29, 1926 and grew up in Waverly, Missouri. After serving in the U.S. Navy for nearly 8 years, he returned to Waverly and worked a variety of jobs, including as an ammunition tester, hardware store employee, rural mail carrier, and eventually Postmaster of Waverly. Throughout his life, Riley was deeply involved in the community, serving as a volunteer firefighter, JC member, school board member, city council member, 4-H leader, and more. He was also an active member of the Waverly United Methodist Church, singing in the choir and serving on the administrative board.

  • Don Riley was born on August 29, 1926.
  • Riley enlisted in the U.S. Navy in the summer of 1944 and served for just under 8 years.
  • Riley married Wilma Jean Orear on January 12, 1951.
  • Riley became the full-time Rural Carrier in 1958 and was appointed Postmaster of Waverly in 1985.
  • Don Riley passed away on January 18, 2026 at the age of 99.

The players

Don Riley

A lifelong resident of Waverly, Missouri who dedicated decades of his life to public service and community involvement, serving in roles such as volunteer firefighter, school board member, city council member, and Postmaster of Waverly.

Wilma Jean Riley

Don Riley's wife of 74 years, who passed away just 8 months prior to Don.

Waverly United Methodist Church

The church where Don Riley was an active member, singing in the choir and serving on the administrative board.

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What’s next

A celebration of Don Riley's life will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at the Waverly United Methodist Church fellowship hall.

The takeaway

Don Riley's decades of service and dedication to the Waverly community serve as an inspiring example of how one person can make a lasting impact through civic engagement, volunteerism, and a commitment to their local area.