Dr. Robert Frank Riley, Sr.

"For I am persuaded that neither death nor life... shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." — Romans 8:38-39

Obituary

Dr. Robert Frank Riley Sr., 75, of Ackerman, MS, who graced this world from Feburary 10, 1951 to May 21, 2026, was a beacon of light and cherished minister, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, friend, and spiritual son, whose presence brought joy to all who knew him; but most importantly he was a child of God.

Robert was born at home in Ackerman, MS to Lilley Mae Kennedy and Edgar Riley who both preceded him death. To cherish his memory, Robert leaves behind his 'wife, "Ride and Live Road Dog", best friend of forty-three years, and partner of thirty-eight years' Dr. Rhonda Billingslea Riley, D-Min; four wonderful adult children Michael Woods, Tammie L. Robinson (Michael Sr.), Robert F. Riley, Jr. (Tiffany), Abiegail R. Billingslea Andrew (Norman). He also leaves behind eight beautiful grandchildren: Douglas Michael Woods Sr. (Kiara), Marquinta Asunte' Robinson, Michael Anthony Robinson Jr., Kyle Philliph Riley, Dajaha Mitchell, Dajahna DeLaTorre-Velez (Matthew), Kendra Mitchell, Solomon Nehemiah Billingslea; and two great grandchildren. Douglas Michael Woods Jr. and Kelahni Ari Woods, with another great-grandchild on the way. Robert also leaves behind five brothers and two sisters: James Riley (Bessie), Donald Lane (Connie), Jeff Lane, Joe Mathis, Sebastian Riley, Barbara Lane, and June Dunt. Robert also leaves behind in-laws that he could call on for anything at anytime Cynthia Davis, Yvette Banks (Donald), and Kent D Billingslea (Debra); adopted great-nephews whom he raised as his own: D'mtiri Hughes and Brandon Tucker; and adopted grandson Vontese Derrick Odom II. Also celebrating and cherishing his memory is a very large host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Robert received his post-humus Doctorate from Mississippi State School of Ministry under the spiritual guidance of Dr. Bishop M. Boyd. He was also a member of Fresh Fire Ministries under the leadership of his spiritual parents, who, he loved dearly, Apostle Burkey and Prophetess Dr. Tyson Burkey. As a Minister, Robert conveyed the Word of God with humor and directness and It was never a dull moment to serve with him.

Robert shared a life of ministry, devotion and partnership with his wife, Rhonda, and his family was always at the center of his world, and he took immense pride in each of his children, cherishing every moment spent together. Known for his infectious humor, straight-talking, quick to fix-what's-broken attitude, and generous heart, Robert brought laughter and warmth wherever he went. He was admired for his strong work ethic, never shying away from a challenge and meeting life’s obstacles with courage and resilience. His kindness and directness touched all who crossed his path, and his willingness to help others will be remembered by family, friends, neighbors, and community members alike.

Robert’s legacy is one defined by steadfast love, generosity, and strength of character. Those fortunate enough to share in his journey will continue to be inspired by his example.

The Riley and Billingslea family wishes to thank all who have offered their condolences and support during this time. Robert’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Robert's Favorite Bible Verse

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Hebrews 11:1

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June 1, 2026

Dad
Thank you for teaching me how to ride a bike fix a flat tire changes brakes on my car for have a good work ethic. The things I need in life to be the best version of myself that I can. I have so many things to be thankful for Thant you taught me. I have so many memories to be grateful for that will always be with me. The memories of us fishing on the Detroit river on the Canadian side late at night while listening to Alexander O’Neill “if you were here tonight” is one of my favorite memories that I will remember forever.
Rest well Dad.

Robert F Riley jr.

May 29, 2026

Robert, you will be missed. For 43 years you have been my best friend and for 38 of those years you've stood by my side through thick and thin ups and downs. It didn't matter, it was to death do we part. You have stood by my side through every season, every dream, every business, ministry, & every crazy idea. Love has no boundaries. My friend you have left me and I will forever miss you but I know you're in a better place.

You have been a fantastic friend, husband, father, uncle, adopted dad, brother, brother-in-law, minister, spiritual son, and most importantly man of God. Robert, you have stepped to the plate for so many people. For over 35 years we have literally worked together, vacationed together, and Ministered together. Being without you it's a wound that cuts deep but I know that you are no longer suffering in this world. I could not have picked a better man to share my life with. You've always had my back no matter what and I thank you. It's time for you to rest from that earthly body.

We have a beautiful blended family. Your tree stands tall and yes so many have been covered by your branches. Take your rest and let your tree continue nurturing souls. And as you always say. “I KNOW A MAN THAT WORKS MIRACLES BECAUSE I’M ONE. HIS NAME IS JESUS. DO YOU KNOW HIM?”

You did not get to see the final cuts and the finished works of our projects. I'm going to miss your inspiration and silly looks when I'm excited and attempting to explain the various ideas for ministry or business. Your looks says so much without you speaking, but you always centered me and came aboard with “okay, let’s try it”.

I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU.
Your Ride & Live Road Dog
Dr. Rhonda B. Riley

Rhonda Riley

May 28, 2026

Dad, I’ll miss you so long as I’m still here on this earth.

Our relationship was never defined by time from a date or on a watch. Our, Father God in heaven predestined everything about my journey together with you my earthly father. Man, keeps up with time because it matters to them. You God put time on an eternal clock.

Dad, I will sorely miss our daily calls, your laugh, your off the cuff jokes, your smile, the touch of your hand, and the joy my heart felt every time we hugged.

You are resting now and that brings me peace, eternally, where there is no pain, fear, disease or discomfort. I’m so proud that God chose to make you my dad and me your daughter. Our relationship was blood bound here on earth, and now is spiritually bond because we are separated, but only for a while.

Awww, until God’s eternal clock says otherwise. I love you daddy!!! Your daughter Mrs. Tammie Lichel Robinson

Mrs. Tammie Lichel Robinson

May 28, 2026

Some people are born into your life, and some people choose you so completely that you forget there was ever a difference. Robert stepped into the role of my Father when I was only two years old, and from that moment forward, he never once treated me like anything less than his daughter. He never believed in the word “step.” To him, family was built through love, loyalty, sacrifice, and showing up; and he showed up every single time.

He taught me what true co-parenting and a blended family could look like. In a world where those relationships can often be strained, he and my dad, Abie, shared a bond built on mutual respect, care, and love for our family. When my dad was at his sickest, he was there for him. Not because he had to be, but because that was the kind of man he was. He carried people when they were weak and stood beside the people he loved without hesitation.

He opened his heart and home not only to me, but to my cousins as well, raising them as his own children and making sure none of us ever questioned whether we belonged. He gave me the gift of siblings, especially the love of having a sister, something I had desperately longed for as a child.

As a grandfather, he loved my son Solomon deeply and supported us in every season of life. No matter what he was doing, if we called, he would drop everything and come see about us. That kind of love is rare. The kind that makes you feel safe before a word is even spoken. The kind that reminds you that no matter how hard life gets, someone is coming.

He taught me how to build things with my hands and how to stand strong in who I am. He taught me to shoot straight with people, to be honest, direct, and genuine. He showed me how to make real connections with others, how to treat people like they mattered, and how to make someone feel seen the moment they walked into a room. So much of the way I move through this world carries pieces of him in it.

He was dependable in a way that cannot be taught anymore. Gentle when we needed comfort. Strong when we needed protection. Present when we needed love. So much of who I am, and so much of what I understand family to be, came from him.

The world lost a good man, but we lost someone far greater: a protector, a father, a grandfather, a provider, and the kind of person whose love reached far beyond blood. I will spend the rest of my life grateful that he chose us, grateful that Solomon knew his love, and grateful that I got to call him Father.

Abiegail Andrew

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