Albertha Riley

Albertha Riley was an only child born to Beatrice Bunkum Carter and Louis Riley in their family home on Daniel Island, South Carolina. She was born prematurely and not expected to survive. She was raised by her grandmother who fed her with an old fashioned eye-dropper because her mouth was so tiny. Amazingly she thrived!

She worked hard to receive her primary education….walking 5 miles to and from school, often with no shoes. At 14 years old she started working cleaning homes, caring for children and working on the dock in Charleston "heading" shrimp.

In her early 20's she was blessed to have three children. Living in the south as a single mother she recognized her options for success would be limited. She bravely left her children with her mother and pursued an education and career in New York City. Within seven years she was able to start a professional career in nursing and buy her first family home. She was able to move her children up to New York and she worked tirelessly to continue to improve their lives. She returned to school to become a RN and get her masters in nursing. She advanced professionally to become a charge nurse at New York State Psychiatric Facilities. She loved helping people and sharing her knowledge.

She worked hard and saved every penny. In 1993 she bought a second home in Florida to plan for her retirement. She retired to Winter Springs and resided there for the past 22 years. She created a loving home where all were welcome. She lovingly cared for family members and helped raise many of her grandchildren.

She leaves behind many cousins and family. Children: Cynthia Marie Riley (John Tumminia), Althea Elaine Riley Franklin (Benjamin Franklin), Lawrence Anthony Riley (Henrilienne Henry Riley, Rachel Rodriguez). Grandchildren: Jason M. Riley, Taryn M. Davis, Mazonie R. Franklin, Gerren K. Franklin, Simond B. Franklin, Rashan A. Riley, Antoine Banfield, Nastassja C. Rodriguez, Nicole C. Riley, Orlando Mercedes, Jazmine K. Riley, Jovan A. Riley. Great-Grandchildren: Aaron St. Juste, Lexxus M. Riley, Arielle R. Riley, Brayden T. Boissoneault, Sequoia L. Riley, Tyler J. Riley, Jayla E. Davis, Jarius J. Adams, Justin D. Adams, Isabella Gaito, Jayven Franklin, Brysen Franklin, Dimaggio A. Riley, Darrien J. Banfield, Anaysha A. Banfield, Jaeden Stanton, Jelani O. Inegbenebo, Jasairy I. Inegbenebo, Ethan E. Inegbenebo, Amare A. Mercedes, Kameron S. Mercedes. Great-Great Granddaughter: Naomi P. Davis.

Our Albertha, our Mommy, our Granny, was dearly loved by everyone. Throughout her life she was driven by a strong faith in Jehovah and was an inspiring example to all who knew her. We will never forget.

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