Joan Tackett Riley

Joan Tackett Riley died unexpectedly yet peacefully at her home on Friday morning December 26, 2014 at the age of 86. Joan was born on Nov 23, 1928 in Bluefield, WV. She married Harold Riley of Mud Fork, VA in June of 1951, and they had three children. Joan is survived by her husband Harold Riley, son Richard Riley, daughter-in-law Jill Riley, grandsons Jeffrey and John Riley, as well as daughter Jan Riley and daughter-in-law Mariette Hallgren. Joan leaves behind a twin brother Joseph Tackett, brother Donald Tackett and sisters Theresa Tackett and Kay Freshour. Joan was preceded in death by her son William Riley. She graduated from Concord College and began her longtime teaching career. As Harold's job took her to new locations, Joan always found students to teach, people to help and a rich community at church. She loved teaching, especially kids that needed special support. Over the years she encouraged hundreds of students to learn and express their creativity. Over the years, Joan became known for her gentle nature,open heart and capacity to make both strangers and friends feel loved. Joan loved birds, children and took hundreds of sunset pictures from her home in Cleveland, GA. She will be missed by her family and the community. A memorial service will be Sunday, December 28, 2014, 2:00 pm, at the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection, 1755 Duncan Bridge Rd., Sautee, GA 30571. Father Scott Kidd will officiate. In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be sent to the White County Historical Society Cemetery Fund, P.O. Box 1139 Cleveland, GA 30528. Online condolences may be made to the family at barrettfh.com. Barrett Funeral Home of Cleveland