As the day came to a close on Sept. 30, 2025, so did the life of Riley L. Owens III — beloved husband, father and five-term mayor of Centreville, Illinois.

A pillar of the community, Owens was a familiar face in the Two Lane Terrace neighborhood, where he lived with his family until his death. He was often seen biking through the streets or walking to his parents’ home for a morning cup of coffee.

Owens’ life was defined by public service. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of leadership and devotion to the people of Centreville and the greater region.

“He was one of Centreville’s greatest leaders and a champion for the people,” said close friend and neighbor Marius “Mark” Jackson. “He was intelligent enough to know what to do and how to do it, and passionate about his work and for our p

See Full Page