1935 – 2026
On Monday 24th August 2026, Anne passed away peacefully at her home, aged 90.
She was the beloved daughter of the late Eddie and Ena Riley, the dearly loved wife of Derek, and a devoted mother to her identical twin daughters, Angela and Elizabeth. She was also the loving sister of the late John Riley of Pebble Beach, California, and a much-loved aunt to her American niece and nephews and their families.
Anne was brought up on Queens Road, Accrington, in a house built by her grandfather. She was educated at Peel Park Junior School and then at Westholme School for Girls in Blackburn, before going on to secretarial college.
Her working life began at the Town Clerk’s Office in Accrington Town Hall, after which she took a post as the receptionist at Higham’s Mill, also in Accrington. She then stepped away from work to raise her twin daughters, and in 1978 the family moved to Langho.
Anne returned to work as a legal secretary to the senior partners at Simpson Ashworth Slinger Solicitors on Willow Street, Accrington — remembered by all who worked with her as an exceptionally fast and accurate typist. She later joined the newly opened Blackburn office of Pierce Chartered Accountants, where she was receptionist for some thirty years until her retirement.
Beyond her work, Anne was a familiar and much-liked figure in local life. For many years she was a keen golfer and bridge player, serving as a committee member and social member at Great Harwood Golf Club, and later enjoying similar pursuits at Wilpshire Golf Club.
She was an active member of the Inner Wheel Club, part of the Rotary Club of Accrington, giving her time to raise funds for local charitable causes, and was proud to serve a year as the club’s President.
Anne had a joie de vivre, a naughty sense of humour and lifelong love of fashion and singing. She always had a great fondness for the company of others, whether at work, a round of golf, on a social occasion or on her travels. She delighted in visiting new places and spent many happy holidays with her family and friends.
A beautiful life; well lived; rest in peace.
