Jake Riley tribute: Larger than life Coffs Harbour boy remembered

Jake Riley passed away on July 9, 2022. Just 22, he was larger than life and touched everyone around him. See the touching tribute.

Jake Robert Riley, 22, was born in Singleton until moving to Coffs Harbour at age two.

Remembered by eldest sister Kristy, 32, for his positive outlook on life, Jake was always up for an adventure.

Kristy said Jake was a “little prankster” growing up, never taking life too seriously.

“He’d think about the consequences later, that was Jake,” Kristy said of her brother.

Jake had a heart of gold and this was evidenced by the many friends and family who attended his funeral on Monday.

From a young age, Jake loved motorbikes and always had a smile on his face. Picture: supplied

A lover of all things outdoors, Jake discovered his love for horse riding at 19 and worked as a horse riding guide at Valery trails.

He was immensely liked by anyone who got to work with him or the many people that he guided due to his easygoing and adventurous nature.

He loved helping people and going on adventures and had a deep passion for motorbikes.

Kristy said he used to try to keep up with brothers Josh and Andrew.

“Jake was about nine when he knocked out his teeth on his little 49cc motorbike trying to keep up,” Kristy said.

Jake with some of his mates. He’ll leave a mark on everyone he met. Picture: supplied

But he still kept a beaming cheeky smile – no matter what physical or mental injury he was to endure – Jake was a fighter and wasn’t going to stay down.

Jake attended Sandy Beach Public School, Woolgoolga High and Toormina High, where he amassed a strong, loyal group of friends.

“His mates were everything to him. He always talked about his ‘boys’,” Kristy said.

He was also a devoted family man and acted as a role model for his niece Isabella.

He got into plumbing after school, and Kristy said she was proud of how he was progressing in his second year despite having difficulties with literacy.

“A couple of weeks before his passing, he told his TAFE teacher he couldn't read or write and the teacher would stay back and help him, he was trying so hard,” she said.

Jake loved an adventure. Picture: supplied

Jake tragically lost his mother in 2018, which affected him greatly. Although he had the love of his family and friends – he struggled to come to terms with the huge loss.

He never showed his struggle and anyone that knew Jake saw how hard he tried to boost the atmosphere.

“He was so fun to be around, he loved an adventure and a beer,” Kristy said.

Not known for his culinary skills, Jake would call upon his older sister to ask what to order at restaurants.

He also loved relaxing with a beer and some music and was a big fan of rapper TKO.

Kristy hopes Jake‘s story helps spread the word about mental health issues, and encourages anyone suffering to speak up.

“Jake would want that. He always put on a good face and looked happy, but no one knew what was going on inside,” Kristy said.

Jake will always be loved and remembered by all who knew him.

If you, or someone you know needs support or information around depression and anxiety, please dial 1300 22 4636)