William Kyle "Bill" Riley

Obituary for William Kyle "Bill" Riley

William Kyle "Bill" Riley, from Ranger Ga, known by many as a legend in his own right, passed away leaving behind a life defined by service, adventure, and deep love for his family and friends. BUI was a devoted hubby, stepfather, brother, pepaw, pilot, fisherman, and all-around handyman who could fix just about anything. He had a passion for travel, fishing, riding bikes, and even restoring old wicker furniture. More than anything, he loved spending time with the people closest to him.

Bill was born on February 19, 1949, in Greeneville, Tennessee, to Paul Riley and Glada Loudy.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Cindy Riley. They shared 22 wonderful years of marriage and would have celebrated their anniversary on April 9. Together for a total of 26 years.

Bill also leaves behind the stepchildren he proudly claimed as his own: Stephen Burke and wife Stephanie, Janel Cook and husband Tracy, and Jeff Burke.

He was a proud grandfather to McKayla Burke.

He is also survived by his brothers, Richard Riley and Rick Riley and his wife Leslie of Tennessee, along with many cousins and extended family members. He remained close with his father-in-law, George "Bud" Sipka, whom they shared many military stories and he remained close to many of Cindy's relatives as well. He is further survived by his niece, Dolores Lampkin of Seattle and her husband Brian; his nephew, Manfred of Australia; and his nephew Chad Riley and his wife of Tennessee. Additional extended family includes Faith, Hunter, and Hannah. Bill also leaves behind many dear friends he met throughout his travels and long career in aviation.

Bill served his country proudly as a member of the United States Army for 11 years, including three tours in Vietnam. During his service he survived several helicopter crashes, experiences that only strengthened his resolve and skill as a pilot.

After his military career, Bill continued flying for many years as an EMS helicopter pilot and instructed many with Airevac. His aviation career included flying with the Spaulding County Sheriff's Department, the Fayette County Sheriff's Department, and assisting the Atlanta Police Department during the 1996 Olympic Games. He also served as a DPE for the FM giving many pilots their licenses.

Travel became one of Bill and Cindy's great joys after they married. Together they explored much of the world, including trips to Australia and Germany with Steve, Cindy, and Jeff. They enjoyed numerous cruises with Janel and Tracy to destinations such as the Caribbean and Alaska. Bill and Cindy also traveled with close friends Dan and Vickie Baxter and shared many memorable adventures along the way. They had many vacations with close family members.

After retiring from AirEvac, Bill took a six-week solo camper trip across the American West. Other family travels included two trips to California, two visits to Oregon to see family, and adventures to South Dakota and San Antonio. One memorable road trip took them from Boston up the eastern coast to Nova Scotia, while another journey through the Northeast was shared with his brother Rick.

Bill still had plans for the road ahead, including a fishing trip to Colorado and several camping trips in the Midwest to visit family and friends this summer.

Those who knew Bill will remember his steady presence, his adventurous spirit, and the way he made people feel like family. His life was full of miles traveled, stories told, and memories made with the people he loved most.

He will be deeply missed.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 12:00 Noon until 2:00 PM at Max Brannon and Sons Funeral Home.

A flyover will held at Tom B. David Airport, 1957 US Hwy 41 SW Calhoun, GA 30701, following the visitation at 2:30 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests houseplants or donations made to Project Lifesaver https://projectlifesaver.org/donate/.

The Brannon family and staff are honored to serve the family of William Kyle “Bill’ Riley.