Susan Elizabeth "Sue" Riley

27th February 1948 - 7th March 2025
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Service Details
Burn Cottage
Cromwell
Saturday 29 March 2025, 2:00PM

RILEY, Susan Elizabeth (nee Skinner) “Sue”.

Passed peacefully surrounded by her family on 7th March 2025.

Much loved wife of Ken for 56 years, a life well lived together. Dearly loved and treasured mother and mother-in-law of Tim, Emma and Graeme, Sam and Micaela, and Nick and Debbie. Adored Granny to Jake* and Taz, Gus and Bridget, Lachie and Meg, and Tessa, Hunter, Will and Maggie. Precious Great Granny to Oakley and Skyla. Eldest daughter of the late Keith and Shirley Skinner, and loved and respected sister and sister-in-law of Vicky, and Rosie and Derek, brother Fraser. Loved sister-in-law of Marg and Peter* and Rosalie* and Larry. A true friend to many, touching the lives of all she met, forever in our hearts.

Sue’s family wish to extend their sincere thanks to the Oncology and Radiology Departments at Southland Hospital and Hospice Southland, and to Dr Louise Bremer and Dr Kate Bayston for their compassionate care over the last 24 years.

In accordance with Sue’s wishes, a private service has been held. We welcome family and friends to join us to celebrate Sue in her favourite place, Burn Cottage, Cromwell on Saturday 29th March from 2pm. In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice Southland, in Sue’s name would be appreciated. Messages to 132 Gimblett Place, Waikiwi, Invercargill 9810, (* denotes deceased) 

Messages

Emma sorry to read of the loss of your mum. Even though it’s been some time since you worked with us, whenever Sue came to see us I always thought of her as “Emma’s mum”. Condolences to your family.
Tara, Invercargill
Our condolences to Sue's family at this sad time. She was a lovely lady
Wayne & Janice Belesky, Te Anau
Such a good friend!
Mandy, Queenstown
Our Sincere Sympathy to Ken and family on Sue’s passing. She was always ready for a chat whenever we met. I remember our sports days at Gorge Road School. Now at peace after a long struggle.
Neil and Sylvia Winsloe, Alexandra
Such a brave and stoic friend who was a wonderful listener and contributed in so many ways as well as a revered nurse for hundreds and team mate. She was always there for others and loved by all and is already sadly missed.
Julianne and Jim Watson, Invercargill
Heartfelt sympathy to Sue’s family whom she loved dearly.A wonderful and compassionate work colleague and the best kind of friend that time apart from seemed like no time all.
Alison Hawkes
Western Australia
Alison Hawkes, Bunbury
My deepest sympathy to all Sue’s Family
We went to school together at Columba College & she always the same when we met!

Karen Fyffe, Makarewa, Invercargill
We are thinking of you Ken and family at a sad time. I had the privilege of working with Sue and found her always to be kind, compassionate and capable. She always had time for a chat and a smile.
John & Sue Vercoe, Myross Bush
Our prayers and thoughts with you Ken and your wonderful family.Sue was a beautiful person and we had many good times in Plunkett together when our children were young.Cherish all your precious memories .
Chris +Ron Perriam , Invercargill
Deepest sympathy to you all.
Faye Robinson and family, Invercargill
We all have fond memories of Sue. Sorry to hear of your loss. Sending you all our deepest sympathy and love. May all your fond memories comfort you all at this sad time.

Denise & Esme Barker
Denise Barker, Invercargill
Our sympathies to the Riley Family.
Hugh and Carolyn Graham, Invercargill
Was so saddened to hear of the passing of Sue, I have always admired her elegance and class and have very fond memories of our days when Kapuka South was home and Gorge Road was school, much love to you and your family Ken.
Michelle Walsh (nee Dyer), Queenstown
Sending love & sympathies to you Ken& your family, Sue was a caring lady but you her family also caring & supporting her in challenging times. Even when we shifted to Central we never lost touch when you got Burn Cottage often meeting in town. Memories of Sue are the gifts your hearts receive to bring comfort as you grieve. Blessings from Dave & Frances Stewart & Kellan Stewart.
Stewart Family , Wallacetown 9816
Dear Emma, Graeme, kids, Ken, and extended family, what a powerhouse your Mum Sue was EEJR!
Always welcoming us to your homes, always, with a large smile on her face, and with amazing hospitality to ensure everyone felt comfortable and at ease.
I know she leaves a massive gap in your lives, you have my deepest sympathy.
Condolences,
Carmen & kids x
Carmen White , Auckland
So sorry for the loss of your lovely Mum. Mums are such special people - take comfort in the many memories you shared xx
Karen & Vaughan , Auckland