Harold Dean Riley, a cherished resident of Las Cruces, NM, previously of El Paso, TX peacefully passed away on Thursday, July 4, 2024, at the age of 88. He was born on April 22, 1936, in Lamesa, TX to loving parents Vaudrey (Doc) and Opal Riley.

Harold grew up and attended school in Carlsbad, NM graduating in 1954 with academic honors.  Following his graduation, he attended the University of New Mexico  on a football scholarship. On February 28, 1958, he joyfully married the love of his life, Fran Daniels Riley, and their love story spanned an impressive 65 years. Together, Harold and Fran raised two daughters, Donna and Kristel. Shortly into their marriage Harold joined the Army and served for three years, two of which were in Germany, and was honorably discharged in El Paso, TX. He worked for IBM for a short time before attending New Mexico State University, acquiring an accounting degree. His 37- year career in accounting started at Peat Marwick Mitchell, a public accounting firm in El Paso, TX. He later became the Chief Financial Officer of Property Trust of America, a small local firm that by the time he retired grew into an international company.

Harold's best days were spent hunting and fishing, taking in the breathtaking views of Colorado and Alaska. He also enjoyed capturing beautiful scenery and loved ones behind the camera.  Above all, he loved spending time with his family, who were the joy of his life.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents, Doc and Opal Riley, his brother, Doyle Riley, father-in-law, Luther Daniels, mother-in-law, Cebele Daniels, nephew, Dean Riley and his son-in-law, Christopher Cruncleton.

Mr. Riley is survived by his wife, Fran Riley of Las Cruces, NM, daughter, Donna Román (Ramon) of Las Cruces, NM and daughter, Kristel Cruncleton of El Paso, TX. Harold was a beloved grandpa and is survived by five grandchildren: Erich Román (Shalom), Riley Román (Teresa), Crista Shabazz (Siddeeq),  Jeremy Román (Jenna) and Daniel Cruncleton. He also leaves behind 7 great-grandchildren who adored him: Avalynn Simmons, Ezequiel Shabazz, Evan Román, Zaqariah Shabazz, Phoenix Román, Hezeqiah Shabazz, and baby girl Román on the way. In addition, he is survived by his beloved brothers-in-law, Bill Daniels (Maytha), Larry Daniels (Debbie) & Mike Daniels (Anne).

One friend captured Harold well, "Harold was a man of high integrity". He was a devoted husband, father, grandpa, great-grandpa and friend. Those who had the privilege of knowing him were truly blessed to have had this remarkable Christian example of selfless love and service, following in the footsteps of Jesus.

Services to celebrate Harold's life will be held on Wednesday July 17, 2024 at University Community Church, 1555 E University Avenue. Visitations will begin at 09:00 A.M. and the Celebration of Life will begin at 10:00 A.M. Interment and Rite of Committal will conclude at Masonic Cemetery, 760 S. Compress Road. Flowers can be sent to Baca's Funeral Chapel, 300 E Boutz Road.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapels of Las Cruces and Sunset Crematory, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for "Veterans and Family Memorial Care." For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com