Riley Renee Pederson was born June 9, 2005, in Minot, ND to Ronica and Michael Pederson. Riley grew up in Tioga, where she became known for her radiant spirit, infectious enthusiasm, and unwavering devotion to her faith. A faithful member of the Lutheran church from childhood, Riley's love for Jesus was the foundation of her life. She was an active participant in Sunday School and later found joy in teaching music to younger students, sharing her gifts and her faith with the next generation.

Riley's academic journey was marked by excellence, passion, and a deep appreciation for the teachers who guided her along the way. From her Sunday School instructors to her high school educators and college professors, Riley loved and respected every teacher who invested in her growth. Their encouragement and wisdom helped shape the remarkable young woman she became. Graduating from Tioga High School in 2023 with honors, she earned the prestigious Arion award in recognition of her outstanding achievement in music. Her curiosity and talent spanned multiple areas—she excelled in science, pursued art with dedication, and possessed a remarkable singing voice that graced the school and church choir. Her intellectual gifts were recognized through numerous scholarships and science fair awards and also special recognition from the Northwest Music Festival for her four year-long commitment to musical excellence.

Following graduation, Riley pursued her passion for engineering, interning with Moore Engineering for two summers and serving as an engineer intern for Williams County. She continued her education at Williston State College, where she earned an Associate's degree in Science. It was during her college years that Riley met Bryce, the love of her life—a relationship that brought her tremendous joy and hope.

She cherished her family and friends deeply, and enjoyed spending time with her sister Austyn, with whom she shared special girls' days filled with pampering, laughter, good food, and their shared love of anime. Riley's love extended to everyone she encountered—her generous heart knew no bounds. Her passions included hunting, camping, and ice fishing—outdoor adventures that allowed her to experience the beauty of creation. In quieter moments, Riley found solace and expression through painting, creating art that reflected her sensitive and creative soul. Her beloved dog, Ruger, was her souls companion and source of comfort.

Riley was light itself. She was bright and happy in a way that wasn't just surface-level cheerfulness—it came from deep within her, from a heart that was kind and loving beyond measure. Her bubbly personality and fierce love made her shine so bright that people couldn't help but be drawn to her. She had this way of making you feel seen, feel valued, feel loved. She was the girl who would go around a room full of people, hugging everyone, making sure each person knew they were loved and that they mattered. That was Riley's gift to this world.

Riley's life, though brief, was a testament to living with purpose, faith, and love. She approached each day with enthusiasm, pursued her dreams with determination, and treated others with genuine kindness and compassion. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her—in the lives she touched, the love she shared, and the example she set of a life well-lived.

Riley is survived by the love of her life Bryce Fort; her parents, Michael & Ronica Pederson; sister, Austyn Pederson; great-grandmother, Adell Johnson; grandparents, Tim & Donna Holly, Orabelle Pederson. She also leaves behind her aunts and uncles, Jessica (Jason) Steele, Raylene (Jason) Mattern, Randy (Angel) Pederson, Janet (Chris) Schimitz; her cousins, Shelby (Kevin) Speidel, Wyatt (Makayla) Sandberg, Haylee, Summer, Averie, Carter, Lynkin, Keetyn, Harper, Max and Lennon. Numerous great aunts and uncles and extended cousins.

Riley is preceded in death by her grandpa, Larry Pederson; and cousin, Josiah Sandberg.