James Preston Riley

James Preston Riley, 65, of Portales, NM, died unexpectedly on Monday, June 24, 2024. Services will be at 12:00 P.M. on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 at Brooks Chapel in Canyon, TX with David Bagwell officiating.

Preston was born on June 4, 1959 in Albuquerque, NM to Jimmy and Carlene (Strong) Riley. He attended Portales High School and married Lisa Roberson in 1979. They lived in Canyon until his boys graduated from Canyon High School before moving to Portales.

Preston was a truck driver in his early years, worked in the oil fields briefly, and then retired from Ryder Truck Rental after 10+ years with them. He was extremely mechanically inclined, known for his ability to repair anything. He enjoyed competing in bull riding when he was younger and has always had a genuine connection with children. He loved his family dearly and was a wonderful father and loving husband. He considered his greatest accomplishment his two boys, participating and delighting in everything they did. His two grandchildren were absolutely his world and he treasured spending every moment he could with them making memories. He will be remembered for his generous spirit and his willingness to help anyone, giving the shirt off his back, if necessary, at a moment's notice.

Preston is preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his two sons, Michael Riley and wife, Stephanie of North Carolina and Jarred Riley of Lubbock; two grandchildren, Cayden and Mackenzie Riley of North Carolina; six siblings, Ann and Tommy Blankenship of La Luz, NM, Hollis and Flo Riley of Tablao, NM, Chesna and Bill Benge of Alpine, TX, Clyde Riley of Capitan, NM, Diona and Jimmy Ward of Mayhill, NM, and Jennifer Smith and River Dreamwalker of Portales, NM; and numerous nieces and nephews that loved him.