Mark Ewing Riley

Mark Ewing Riley, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at the age of 74. Born on April 1,1951 in Brooklyn, NY, he was one of six children born to the late Arthur Ewing Riley and Julia Dorsey Riley. He is survived by his devoted wife of 44 years, Pauletta; his son, Brendan (Cindy); his daughter, Emily (Frank); his cherished grandchildren, Kaydyn and Kael; brother, Christopher; sister, Mary Rafferty; and many beloved sister-in-laws, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by brothers Arthur, Sean, and Liam. One of Mark's most significant accomplishments was achieving 31 years of sobriety, a journey he often credited to the unwavering support of the Friends of Bill community. Known fondly by many as "Mark the Shark," his sharp wit and profound sense of humor brought joy to everyone around him. He spent much of his life dedicated to service, family, and his passions. A proud alumnus of the University of Maryland College Park, he earned his bachelor's degree in Business and Public Administration and devoted many years to the Prince George's County Department of Social Services as an administrator, where he made a significant impact on countless lives. In addition to his work with the State, Mark was an avid real estate agent for more than 40 years, finding joy in helping others discover their dream homes. Beyond his professional endeavors, Mark's passion resided in supporting his family. His loved ones will forever remember the way he made time to cheer on his children at every practice, game, and concert (or opera), proudly sitting in the bleachers as their number one fan. Mark had a great love for sports, and was an avid Baltimore Orioles fan. He enjoyed countless mornings with a cup of 7-11 (more recently Wawa) coffee paired with a donut and the morning newspaper. He was also very proud of his Irish heritage, from the Irish blarney he shared with family and friends to the Irish walking cap he was frequently seen wearing (or misplacing!). A funeral service will be held in the Community Mausoleum at Fort Lincoln Cemetery, 3401 Bladensburg Road, Brentwood, MD 20722 on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. Friends and family are invited to join Mark's family for a repass from 12:30 - 3:00 pm at Franklin’s Restaurant, 5123 Baltimore Ave, Hyattsville, MD 20781. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Mark's favorite Friday night activity, the Parkside High School Rams Football team. Please make checks payable to Parkside High School Rams Football: 1015 Beaglin Park Drive, Salisbury, MD 21804. Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.

Mark Ewing Riley

April 1, 1951 - June 5, 2025