Nancy Sona Riley

The Family of Nancy Sona (Arakelian) Riley sadly announces her passing on Wednesday September 24th in Sarasota, FL. Born in West Springfield, MA to Parents Ardashes and Arshalouis Arakelian, Armenian immigrants from Turkey and France respectively, she grew up in W. Springfield with her sisters, Rose (Terzian), and Zari (Hanna), and brothers, Gabe, and Richard, as first generation Americans.

Shortly after High School, Nancy attended Mansfield Beauty Academy in New York to become a hair stylist. She loved her profession and working to help people look their very best. Her career covered over fifty years. She also loved helping and caring for the elderly. She was a member of the VNA (Visiting Nurses Association) in the 1980’s and helped as much as she could and as much as her strength would allow during that time.

Nancy married Richard David Riley in 1963 and went on to have four sons, Michael, Richard, Robert, and James. Her children were the love of her life. Nancy was a caring soul, and she cared for so many people all her life. That was her calling we believe. She also loved singing and dancing. She was a member of the St. Gregory’s Armenian Church Coire, and the Golden Blue Ribbon Singers out of the W. Springfield Senior Center. She would tour and perform at many retirement homes and Soldier’s Homes in the area. She gave her heart in everything she did.

Her friendly disposition and kindness to everyone will be greatly missed by her family, friends, and anyone who knew her. Nancy is survived by her four sons, ten grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Nancy’s visiting hours will be held Thursday, October 2nd between 6 and 8 pm at Ratell Funeral Home, Indian Orchard, MA. Wake service at 7:45

Her funeral services will be held at St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church, 135 Goodwin St., Indian Orchard on Friday October 3rd at 11:00 am.

Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Springfield. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Gregory Apostolic Church or charity of your choice. Please visit ratellfuneralhome.com to leave remembrances and words of sympathy for the family.