It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our esteemed colleague and dear friend, Caroline Meyer Riley. Caroline’s departure on July 13, 2023, has left us deeply saddened, as we mourn the loss of an extraordinary legal professional and a cherished member of our law firm family.
Caroline was an exceptional and tenacious lawyer, with an unparalleled sense of humour and the warmest smile. As a valued member of our firm, she consistently demonstrated legal expertise, unwavering dedication, and an unyielding commitment to her clients and peers.
As a founding partner and throughout her time with SBA, Caroline played an instrumental role in shaping our firm’s success and reputation. She was renowned for her mentorship and willingness to share her vast knowledge and experience with her colleagues. Caroline’s impact on the legal community and her ability to inspire those around her will be deeply missed.
Beyond her professional achievements, Caroline was a true friend and confidant to many. Her unique wit, infectious laughter, and genuine concern for others made her a beloved presence within our law firm. She possessed a unique ability to brighten even the most challenging days and uplift the spirits of those around her. Caroline’s loss leaves a void that cannot be filled, and her memory will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
The great granddaughter of a distinguished Haitian lawmaker, Caroline was very passionate about the Caribbean community. In her “free time”, she joined the Scholarship Committee of the Caribbean Canadian Association of Waterloo Region. Founded in 1975, the CCAWR is a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote the social, cultural, and economic interests of, and advocate for, the Caribbean community in the Region of Waterloo.
To honour Caroline’s memory and the exceptional legacy she leaves behind, SBA has established the Caroline Meyer Riley Memorial Scholarship with the CCAWR. Full details of Caroline’s scholarship will be available shortly at http://ccawr.ca/scholarships/.
Caroline Meyer Riley was a brilliant lawyer, a compassionate advocate, and a dear friend to us all. Her presence within our law firm will be deeply missed, but her legacy will endure. As we grieve her loss, let us also remember the immense impact she had on our lives and the legal community.
May Caroline rest in peace, forever remembered for her extraordinary legal acumen, her unwavering dedication, and her profound kindness.
With heavy hearts,
SBA Lawyers LLP