Jimmy Dale Riley Jr.

Firefighter Jimmy Dale Riley Jr. of the Plant City Fire Rescue Department in Florida passed away on February 24, 2021, after a long and courageous battle with occupational glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. He was 40 years old and had served in his department for 17 years. He was also a veteran, having served in the U.S. Marine Corps as a military police officer. 

Riley was born in Bartow, Florida, and grew up in Lakeland. He excelled academically and in athletics at McKeel Academy, where he played baseball and was always competitive. He had a calling to serve others which led him to the field of emergency services. He joined the Plant City Fire Rescue in 2004, serving with pride as a firefighter, EMT, paramedic, instructor and driver engineer. His dedication and excellence were recognized through numerous awards, including being named Firefighter of the Year twice. He was a mentor to many future first responders, leaving a lasting impact on countless people and helping to shape the next generation. 

Riley met his future wife, Kimberly, at the fire station, where she was an EMT student. They married and had a daughter, Alyssa, who was their greatest blessing. They enjoyed being outdoors, on the water, and taking time for day dates during the week. He was a devoted husband, an amazing father, and a great friend to all. He was a dedicated provider who worked multiple jobs to support his family, always putting their needs first. He was truly a remarkable man. 

Firefighter Jimmy Dale Riley Jr. is survived by his loving wife, Kimberly, adored daughter, Alyssa, grandmother, Fern Riley, and many cherished family members and friends. 

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage on the Riley family home through the Fallen First Responder Home Program.