Mary Riley

Mary Jo Riley, nee Bedell, 81, of Belleville, IL, born April 7, 1944, in Belleville, IL, died December 11, 2025, at Dammert Care Center, Belleville, IL.

Born with a gentle spirit and a steadfast faith, Mary Jo dedicated her life to nurturing others. As a teacher, she inspired students with patience, wisdom, and compassion, leaving an indelible mark on every classroom she entered. Her greatest joy, however, was found in motherhood. Mary Jo poured her heart into raising her children, guiding them with love, faith, and unwavering support. She embodied the values of kindness, humility, and selflessness, always placing her family at the center of her life.

A devout Catholic, Mary Jo lived her faith daily through prayer, service, and devotion to the Church as a lifelong parishioner at both St Peter's Cathedral and Queen of Peace in Belleville. Her life was a testament to the power of faith and the strength of love, and she leaves behind a legacy of compassion, integrity, and devotion that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Thomas Bedell and Marcella Bedell; her brothers-in-law, Fred Wachtel and Michael Mercurio; and her niece, Marcy Wachtel.

She is survived by her children, William (Meredith) Riley III and Thomas (Margaret) Riley Sr; her grandchildren, Finnegan Riley, Thomas Riley Jr., Eloise Riley,

and Kilian Riley; her sister, Ann Bedell Wachtel; two brothers-in-law, Michael (Susan) Riley and Joe Riley; two sisters-in-law, Kathy Mercurio and Patti Jo Freeman;

five nephews, Jeremy Wachtel, Jeff (Tiffani) Wachtel, Mike (Carey) Riley, Tim (Samantha) Riley, and Sean (Jeff) Riley; two nieces, Jennifer (Ryan) McCracken and Ashley Freeman; as well as many cousins and great-nieces and great-nephews.

Mary Jo will be deeply missed by her family and friends and all who were blessed to share in her journey. Though her earthly presence has passed, her spirit will remain a guiding light in the hearts of those she loved.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Vincent de Paul Society Conferences at St. Peter's Cathedral, Belleville and Blessed Sacrament, Belleville. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.

Visitation: Friends may visit with the family from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, December 19, 2025, at St. Peter’s Cathedral Catholic Church, Belleville, IL.

Funeral: A memorial mass will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, December 19, 2025, at St. Peter’s Cathedral, Belleville, IL, with Msgr. James Buerster officiating.

Private family burial will follow the service.