Lester Paul Riley came into this world on September 9, 1936, near Alton, to Wilson Riley and Waltie (Roy) Riley, and left this world behind on February 17, 2026, at his home in Thayer.
Lester dedicated 28 years of his life to working in a garment factory. Later, he became an over-the-road truck driver, hauling everything from petroleum to mail to lumber and livestock.
On June 27, 1959, he was united in marriage to Regina Vincent. Together they shared over 66 wonderful years of marriage and were blessed with two children, a son, Rick, and a daughter, Lesa.
He had a deep love for quarter horses and proudly participated in many horse shows over the years. He also enjoyed tending his cattle and growing a big garden. Lester was a long-time member of the Thayer Fire Department and devoted many years to the Thayer Little League Association, always taking great pride in supporting his children’s activities.
An avid outdoorsman, quail hunting was his favorite pastime. He cherished a good bird dog and owned many throughout his life. He also enjoyed working puzzles and was always proud to see one completed, framed, and displayed. A true hard worker, Lester continued cutting his own wood well into his 80s.
He never met a stranger and formed lasting friendships wherever he went, always choosing to see the good in others. Known by several nicknames, including LP Riley, he carried on that tradition with his grandchildren—Snitzelfritz (Sara), Goat Roper (Chad), and Shorty (Emily). He treasured the many hours spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Lester was a beloved husband, Dad, Grandpa, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Arnold Riley; one sister, Louella Satterfield; one nephew, Jordan Riley; one step-grandson, Matt Guffey; and two special cousins, Clyde and Ben Dills.
He is survived by his loving wife, Regina Riley; his son, Rick (Charlene) Riley; and his daughter, Lesa (Danny) Guffey. He also leaves behind three grandchildren: Sara (Gage) Busch, Emily (Evan) Pyland, and Chad Guffey; as well as three great-grandchildren, Judson and Quinn Busch and Baby Pyland, due to arrive in August. He is further survived by his two sisters, Roberta Mahaney and Donita Rinearson, along with several nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family would greatly appreciate memorials to go to the Shiloh Grand Gulf Cemetery of Koshkonong, Missouri or be left with the Funeral Home.
A Graveside Funeral Service will be on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., at the Shiloh Grand Gulf Cemetery of Koshkonong, Missouri.
Grand Gulf Shiloh Cemetery
426 County Road 378
Koshkonong, MO, 65692
Services in care of Carter Funeral Home Inc., – Thayer, Mo.
February 18, 2026 @ 2:17 pm
Lester was the greatest father in law a man could ever have, Kind hearted, loving and would teach you anything, my fondest memories of us,is him teaching me how to call Turkeys with a month caller and me and him out hunting them Turkeys,also us loading up and going to feed his cattle and helping others to feed their cattle what a time we had together, I will always cherish those times we shared.. Love you Lester until we meet again Rest easy buddy and I know you will be with me on all my turkey excursions.
February 18, 2026 @ 4:21 pm
So sad to hear of Lester’s passing. He was our neighbor for many years & always thought highly of him. He will be remembered as a good man to all who knew him.
February 18, 2026 @ 7:08 pm
LP was one of the finest fellas I ever had the privilege of knowing. I spent many a day and night in the Riley home. I loved sitting and listening to LP tell stories and instruct Lesa and I on how to take care of the blue truck. If there ever was a man, besides my daddy, that I had so much respect for, it was LP Riley. He was so kind to me and treated me just like his own and I loved him very much. Prayers for all his family and much love to Lesa. I’m so sorry sis. ❤️🙏🏻❤️
February 19, 2026 @ 8:23 am
May the Lords comfort carry you when your strength feels gone. Did Mr. Riley ever work at Cover Lumber? I remember my dad, Bobby Ward speaking his name when I was growing up in relation to work. Perhaps it was because they were fellow truck drivers? But if he did work for Cover, would it be possible for his family to provide a copy of a photo for us? I would like to start a memorial wall at the store in memory of former employees who have now gone Home to be with the Lord in paradise….Just like my Roy
February 20, 2026 @ 9:51 am
Michelle, he retired from Cover’s. I will talk to my grandma and let her pick out a picture. Dad or I will drop it by Cover’s for you.
February 20, 2026 @ 12:03 am
So sorry to hear of Lesters passing..it’s never easy losing our parents ..to Lesa love you sis and if you need anything I’m here..to you all..you’re in my thoughts and prayers…he was always such a sweet man ..he will be missed ❤️
February 23, 2026 @ 2:31 am
Whenever I’d pick Lesa up for school or to go to a ballgame to cheer, if LP were there he’d say, “You girls behave.” I never knew if he was kidding us or serious. I took it seriously!
To Lesa and all who loved him, I am so sorry to hear of his passing. May your memories of him comfort you during this time and going forward.
February 24, 2026 @ 2:44 pm
So sorry to hear of Lesters passing,he was our neighbor for many years .
My condolences to his entire Family .