Stephanie A. Risley

Waterville-Stephanie Ann Risley, 51, entered the heavenly kingdom on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, where she was reunited with the Holy Father, her son Tyler, her brother Steve, and her sister Kathy.

Stephanie was born on October 17, 1973, in Little Falls, the daughter of the late Stephen C. Owen and Marjorie Irvin Owen.  She grew up in Little Falls and was a graduate of Little Falls High School.  Stephanie continued her education by graduating from Herkimer Community College.  She received her credentials as a Certified Teaching Assistant.  She had been a special needs student teacher at Hamilton Central School.  She previously held a similar position at the Leonardsville School.   Stephanie deeply cared for the children she taught. She will be remembered for her compassion, dedication, and the ability to brighten the lives of those around her. Stephanie was an avid television fan enjoying any program that she could find on the television. She also enjoyed games on her tablet and was always up for a game of Yahtzee.

She is survived by her children, her son and daughter-in-law, James and Casey Whittaker, and her daughter and son-in-law Samantha and Owen Smith; her brother and sister-in-law Donald and Jackie Abrams; her cherished grandchildren: Blake Whittaker, Cole Whittaker, Patrick Smith, Henry Smith, and Taegan Smith. Stephanie is also survived by her close friend, supporter, and a big part of her life, Fred Risley.  She leaves behind nieces, nephews, and close friends.

Stephanie was predeceased by her parents Steve and Marge, her brother Steven Owen, her sister Kathy Donnelly, and her beloved son Tyler Risley.

Her funeral will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 3 PM, at the Paul Funeral Home of Madison. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service from2-3 PM, at the funeral home, 3592 South Street in Madison.  Interment services will be private. Compassionate and personal care is being provided to Stephanie and her family by Jeffrey T. Paul, Director of the Paul Funeral Home of Madison.  To offer a condolence, please visit: paulfuneralhome.net