The Best Partner

​"One of my most recent interactions with Riley was a night in early December when I was home visiting my family in Wilmington between Thanksgiving and Christmas. A bunch of us were at a restaurant that had dart boards and of course there was some "friendly" competition taking place. My brother and his girlfriend were partners, my mom and her boyfriend were partners, and both pairs thought they were unbeatable. I knew the partner I wanted to compete with - Riley! Win or lose I knew we would have the most fun and that he would treat me the same no matter the outcome (or my contribution). 

From the time Riley could walk and talk and partake in the games with the older kids, Riley was always my partner. Whether we were playing card games with our parents, capture the flag in the neighborhoods, laser tag at Jungle Rapids, or a game in the pool - Riley was always the person I wanted on my team. He was a team player that was competitive, yet kind, determined, yet patient. If I had the best game of my life, or the worst, Riley was the most supportive teammate you could have. Although we both hate to lose more than anything, we always had a great time and laughed until our stomachs hurt. 

I will miss my partner in games and in life!  Love you always Boo Bear."

-Anna Hildreth 

P.S. You better save my spot as your darts partner up there!