Mary Manetta Riegler Lile

MARY MANETTA RIEGLER LILE passed away April 3, 2013. She was born to Elizabeth and Andrew Riegler, Sr. on Nov. 19, 1923. She was predeceased by her parents and her brother, Andrew Riegler, Jr. She is survived by her husband of 68 years, Greer H. Lile, Sr.; her three children, daughter, Chere Payne (A.J.) and sons, Greer "Skip" Lile, Jr., and Brett Lile, Sr.; her two grandsons, Brett Lile, Jr., and Brendan Lile; her brother, Maury C. Riegler; two sisters-in-law, Francelle Riegler and Emma Louise Lile; and nieces and nephews. "Sweet Mom," as her grandsons called her, was loved and cherished by all. She never met a stranger, and her winning smile could light up a room. Her father always said, "Mary Manetta could get on the elevator at the Donaghey Building, and by the time she reached the seventh floor knew all the elevator occupants, and was probably related to many of them." She was an accomplished artist with a Craftsman's Degree from the Professional Photographers of America. She, along with her husband, conducted many seminars in the United States and Canada. She was recognized by Princess Grace of Monaco in an International Needlework Competition for the delicate petit point monogrammed wedding albums she designed and made for the brides in the photography studio she shared with her husband for 60 years. Her talents were many; one being a wonderful cook, but hoped when she got to heaven "to never have to wash dishes again". Mary Manetta was always fun-loving and had a good time, and was also quite mischievous as a teenager. She loved to sing, and had ambitions to be an opera singer, but fell in love with a young cadet, and sang to her family instead. She could just about out Jitterbug anyone, and we could always raise a twinkle in her eye when we asked about her dancing partners. She graduated Little Rock High School in 1941, and was instrumental in planning the 50 reunion, along with her high school chums with whom she was still acquainted. The family wishes to thank the neighbors who have been so helpful, especially Mike Wood, who could always lift her spirits. Mary Manetta requested cremation and a private service for the family. The Carmelite Sisters held a special place in her heart. Memorials can be made to them at 7201 W. 32nd St., Little Rock, Ark. 72204. Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, (501)224-2200. Mary Manetta's online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.