Edward Patterson Riley “Ted” was born in Barnwell, South Carolina on October 27, 1900, the son of Dr. Richard W. Riley and Meta Dowling Riley. Graduated Furman University LL.B. 1926.
Married Martha Elizabeth Dixon on October 31, 1927. Two sons born of this marriage, Edward Patterson Riley, Jr., who practiced law with his father for 35 years, and Richard Wilson Riley, who practiced law with his father and who served as Governor of South Carolina for two terms. He is also survived by his daughters-in law, Nancy and Tunky, 6 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.
His legal career began as Judge of the Children’s Court; he later served as Assistant U.S. Attorney and as managing partner in the firms of Riley & Riley and Riley, Riley, Laws & Stewart. He was named of Counsel with Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, L.L.P., in 1988. He was Greenville County Attorney and School District Attorney during school consolidation and the difficult time of integration of the public schools. He served as President of the South Carolina Bar Association and in 1989, was the recipient of the Durante Distinguished Service Award.
He volunteered for the Navy in WWII and served as Legal Officer for the Seventh Fleet in the Pacific Theater.
Ted Riley’s life was dedicated to his family, his community and state, his church, and his profession.
To “Mr. Ted,” the highest office in the land was that of citizen and Citizen Riley was a dynamic force to be dealt with when he championed a cause. His courage, his enthusiasm, his integrity and his zest for life and dedication to defeating injustice — all of these are part of the legacy he leaves, and the torch he passes.