Christine Graves Riley, known as Honey to her family and dearest friends, passed away peacefully at the age of 99 on November 4, 2024 at Spring Oak in Bedford, Virginia. She was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Joseph Edward Riley. She is survived by her daughters, Mary Wilkes and Rebecca Riley (David Carden); her grandchildren, Christine Wilkes Kennedy (Jason), Dylan Carden (Elizabeth) and Meredith (Micah); and her great-grandchildren, Viola, Jude and Diana. Born to Ike and Ruth Graves in Presque Isle, Maine, Honey grew up with Bob and Sid, her two older brothers, in the part of the state known for its lakes, forests and potato farms. Hers was a family of entrepreneurs and gardeners, that celebrated New England summers on Portage Lake where water sports, entertaining friends and family, and competitive card games passed the time. It was at Portage Lake where she met her future husband on leave from duty in World War II. They moved to Portland, Maine, where their two daughters – Rebecca and Mary – were born. When Joe’s work took them back to the nation’s capital they settled in Falls Church, Virginia, where they lived until retirement in Bedford. Throughout her life Honey spent her time and talents on making a wonderful family environment for her daughters, staying in touch with the relatives throughout Maine and Virginia, and creating a beautiful and welcoming home environment for all to enjoy. She loved setting and abundantly filling a beautiful table, making each holiday sparkle with special traditions and decorations, and keeping flowers grown lovingly by Joe abundantly available throughout the house. Whether sewing or needle pointing, doing crossword or jigsaw puzzles, or reading the latest novel or newspaper, Honey found endless pleasure in her life and the people with whom she generously shared it. She also became an important person in the lives of her three grandchildren. Whether caring for Christine after school or providing a magical country vacation for Dylan and Meredith visiting from Chicago, Honey left indelible marks on their hearts. She was also pleased to welcome into the family three greatgrandchildren – Viola, Jude and Diana — continuing a Maine family tradition of bringing four generations together for very special celebrations. Throughout the extended family she was beloved for her good nature and gentle kindness, always paying special attention to each older and younger generation. The family recognized that for all her life in Virginia, she left her heart in Maine and cried every summer when vacations there ended. While enjoying retirement in Bedford, she pursued her interests as a member of the Friday Book Club, the Otterburn Garden Club and the P.E.O. Sisterhood. In addition, she dedicated her time to helping others whether arranging flowers for the sanctuary or hosting church ladies for tea. She spent many hours volunteering at hospitals and retirement communities by writing cards and letters for residents whose hands were no longer able to send legible notes to family and friends. Many of these families were able to thank her in person when they visited. Honey died as she lived, with quiet grace and dignity. She never lost her sense of humor, her interest in making those around her feel appreciated, nor her stubbornness in doing things in her own way. She never stopped missing Maine or loving the color purple. She looked old age squarely in the face and took it for a long and happy ride. The family is deeply appreciative for all those who cared for her in her final year, especially Liz and the staff at Spring Oak. Please keep Honey’s memory alive by being kind to a friend, assisting someone in need, or recognizing a moment of daily beauty. Any donations can be made in her memory to the Society of St. Andrew or Historic Avenel. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, November 17, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at Bedford Presbyterian Church. A reception will follow. Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.