DeKalb resident and career school teacher Lu Riley (born Wilma Louise Vick in Fairfield, Illinois) passed away peacefully from natural causes at the age of 90 on the early morning of March 22 at Oakcrest senior facility in DeKalb. She left behind a wealth of friends and former students in the area, and many of the latter often recognized her in stores around town, commenting, "Mrs. Riley, you were my favorite teacher!" She would reply, "I'm sorry, but you'll have to tell me your name. You don't look like a third-grader anymore." Upon being given a name, she inevitably recalled the person as a child. Many told her how important she was to them at that time in their young life, with her personalized attention and care. Some even sought her out later, when they were adults, to express their gratitude. She loved her work and found it very rewarding.

Lu became president of her Alpha Phi sorority at Rollins College (Winter Park, Florida) and later was active in the group after graduation. She became a "house mom" at the Alpha Phi sorority house in DeKalb at Northern Illinois University upon moving back to Illinois. After attending Rollins College and obtaining a master's degree in English, Lu taught elementary students for the DeKalb County school system in both Malta and DeKalb for decades, mostly working with second- and third-graders. She had a small craft business making needlework art later in life. She also volunteered time at the Oakcrest front desk during her years at the facility and was sometimes known to dress convincingly as an elf during Christmas.

Lu and Glenn Riley enjoyed a long and happy marriage and raised two children, Mike and Jules Riley, while living and working in DeKalb. She is survived by her son and daughter; but she lost Glenn in 2015. The two had previously been crowned "King" and "Queen" of the Oakcrest annual celebrations. Their final resting place will be near their much-loved summer home in Galena which they enjoyed for many years.

An always-kind and giving person, Lu was admired and appreciated by family, friends, neighbors, and students, all of whom benefited in various ways from knowing her.

An "appreciation-of-life" reception will be held on Friday, March 27, from 2 to 4 PM, in the Vista Room at Oakcrest Retirement Center, 2944 Greenwood Acres, DeKalb. All who knew Lu Riley are invited; no need for flowers or gifts, please. We plan to share our appreciation and love for a great lady who will be greatly missed.

For information, visit www.AndersonFuneralHomeLtd.com or call 815-756-1022.