Carol Valerie Riley of Bethlehem passed away, Saturday, January 10, 2026, following a courageous battle with Glioblastoma brain cancer. She was comforted by her loving husband at home during her final moments. Carol was the beloved wife of Harry Riley for 21 years. Born July 29, 1955, in Kingston, Jamaica, to the late Arthur Alton Dobbs and Daphne Hope Dobbs (Linton). Carol graduated from the Convent of Mercy Academy High School in Jamaica, class of 1972.
After moving to the United States in 1979, Carol married Robert Cohen and became the proud mother of two sons, Christopher and Matthew Cohen, whom she loved deeply.
She is a graduate of DeSales University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and went on to build a distinguished 35-year career at PPL, where she served as a Senior Analyst before retiring in 2015.
Carol married Harry in 2005. She was a dedicated wife and stepmother of two stepsons: Matthew and Lee Riley. Her kindness, strength, and loving support defined her. Her passing is deeply felt; she is missed dearly every day.
She was predeceased by her granddaughter Isabella Rose Cohen. She is survived by her husband, Harry; her ex-Robert Cohen; sons Christopher, and Matthew Cohen (Jessica); two grandchildren Quintin Stephens, and Peyton Jack Cohen; two stepsons; Matthew (Sheryl) and Lee Riley; two step grandchildren, Grace and Alex Riley and six loving sisters; Grace Dobbs-Sutherland, Dorret Dobbs (Neville), Jacinth Appleby (Leroy), Linnette Dobbs, Dianne Dobbs, and Beverley Mogg.
A Celebration of Life will be held at St James AME Zion Church, 410 W Union Street, Allentown, PA 18102, on Saturday February 7, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Visitation will take place from 1:00 p.m. until time of service.
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Tom Brauchle
Carol was a delight to know. She always was pleasant and fun to be around. We shared a dedication to the students of Cleveland Elementary for many years. My condolences to your loving family.
Gunzalis Smith
Our deepest condolences to the family during this difficult time…Ms Carol was truly loving and comical and real… I’ve always appreciated her presence and admired her grace… Thank you so much for being that Light… God bless you guys family 🇯🇲🙏🏽🇯🇲
Joanne and Joe Geist
Matt & family,
We are sending our Deepest Sympathy & love as you try to navigate through the loss of your Mother. Carol was a lovely person and will be missed by many. Her love will always be with you. I hope your memories bring you comfort.
Mary Tauber
To Carol’s Family,
My deepest sympathy goes out to Her Family. I worked at PPL not with her but I talked to her out in the hallway. She was a pleasant person to talk to. We used to kid with each other. My thoughts and prayers are with Her Family. May She Rest In Peace With The Lord.
Roz and Bob Metzger
I cannot imagine life without my dear friend. Her husband, Harry, was her rock. And how she loved her family! Her bravery was inspiring right until the end. I am shattered by her loss. I want to remember the wonderful times we had. I will miss her dearly.