Mary A. (McHugh) Riley

Mary McHugh Riley, 106, of Burlington, died Friday, August 22, 2025, at Bickford Cottage of Burlington Assisted Living.

Born August 1, 1919, in Sioux City, IA, she was the daughter of Dr. Charles Parnell McHugh and Mona McGovern McHugh. On January 26, 1942, she married John Collins Riley in Sioux City, Iowa, who died March 11, 1998.

Mary attended Trinity College in Washington, D.C. and graduated 1941 from University of Iowa. She was a member of Divine Mercy Parish - St. Paul's Catholic Church.

Survivors include her daughter, Mona Riley Smith of Burlington; son, John Kerby Riley of Knoxville, TN; granddaughter, Meaghan (Robert Pick) Riley; grandson, Dylan (Emy) Riley, and great-grandsons, Harrison and Brooks Riley, all of Nashville, TN; and several nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and three brothers, Charles McHugh, Hugh McHugh, and John McHugh. 

Mary's final wishes included donate her body to the University of Iowa Deeded Body Program to aid future health care professionals in scientific study. 

Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until 10:30 AM, Saturday, August 1, 2026 at Divine Mercy Parish-St. Paul's Catholic Church. Immediately followed by The Memorial Mass of the Resurrection at 10:30 AM with Fr. Jake Greiner, and Rev. Father David G. Steinle as the Celebrants. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery following the service. The family will be meeting privately the remainder of their one day together. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to any local organization in Burlington. Mary was deeply committed to supporting her community, and a gift in her memory would be a meaningful way to honor her legacy.

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