Nilda S. (Sevilla) Riley

Nilda Sevilla Riley, age 66 of Niles, Michigan, passed away with her family by her side on Sunday, February 4, 2024, after a hard-fought battle with cancer.  She was born September 23, 1957, in Leyte, Philippines to the late Clemente and Eusebia (Sevilla) Credo.  She met William Riley while he was stationed in the Philippines, and they quickly fell in love.  William and Nilda were married in Manila on December 15, 1976, and recently celebrated 47 years of marriage.

She is survived by her husband William Riley of Niles, Michigan, and their children Annabell (Steve) Roeder of Granger, Nilda Faye (Michael Duff) Neihengen of Plymouth, Michigan and Nelia (Ronaldo) Bacordo of Manila, Philippines.  Surviving as well are her grandchildren; Jacob William (Bethany) Roeder, Zackary Lloyd (Maddison) Roeder, Teila (Adam) Earles, Jenna Smith, Brooke (Fiance, Conner Earles) and Michael (Ariel) Roeder as well as 13 Great-Grandchildren and her mother-in-law, Cloye Faye Lary of Niles, Michigan. She is also survived by 1 brother and 2 sisters. She was preceded in death by eight siblings and her father-in-law, Robert W. Lary.  

Visitation will be held from 4-8pm Monday, February 12, 2024, at Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home (Formerly Goethals and Wells) in Mishawaka.  Pastor Jacob W. Roeder will officiate her funeral service at 12pm on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at Wells and Cruz, and Nilda will be laid to rest in Silverbrook Cemetery, Niles. ***A livestream of her services will begin 10 minutes prior to noon on Tuesday and may be viewed in real time in the window below.***

Known for her unwavering spirit and compassionate heart, she served her family as a homemaker whose life was defined by her optimism, courage, and selflessness. She cherished time spent with her daughters, grandkids, great grandkids, adopted grandkids, and the many children in her neighborhood who saw her as a second mother. Her love extended beyond her home, as she enjoyed spending time outdoors. Whether it was taking long walks on the farm, watching hummingbirds at the feeder, tending to her yard and gardens, fishing, or staying active with other outdoor pursuits, Nilda embraced the beauty of the world around her. Nilda loved to crochet and made beautiful tablecloths for her family and friends. She also loved spending time in her kitchen, preparing traditional Filipino meals for her family. Her love for the Holidays was evident in the decorations she would put around her house, always trying to outdo her son-in-law Steve’s decorations.

Nilda's fighting spirit was evident in her battle with cancer. She proved Doctors wrong time and again and fought to be present for every significant milestone in her family's lives. Her presence at graduations, holidays, and weddings was a gift that her loved ones will treasure forever. Her legacy is one of enduring strength and love. She was the embodiment of an optimistic soul, always looking to the brighter side of life, even in the face of adversity and her courage was an inspiration to all who knew her.

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