Kara Leigh Riley left us suddenly, yet peacefully, on Sunday, October 6, 2013. Kara was a woman of courage and generosity of spirit who was steadfast in her beliefs. Above all she believed in her family. Kara was an extraordinary mother, grandmother, daughter, sister and aunt with a smile "that would light up a room." Kara was blessed with many talents, baking, cake decorating, drawing and organizing. Her baking was legendary and she leaves a legacy of recipes. As a master cake decorator, her culinary masterpieces were featured in a number of movies filmed in the Albuquerque area. Most recently, her artistry is reflected in drawing and compiling coloring and teaching books for her grandchildren and nephews. Kara was the family's event planner and kept her large and extended family on track for memorable occasions. Kara received her greatest joy in seeing the look on a loved one's face when she generously shared her wisdom, teachings, art or just a comforting hug. Kara's name meant joy which is what she was, not just to her family, but all those who crossed her path. Despite her early departure, Kara leaves an abundance of memories that would fill many lifetimes, she will always live joyfully in our hearts. Kara is survived by five loving children, Kayleigh McMichael, Kenneth Riley, Juan Martinez, Kattrina Riley and Kassandra DeCory, son-in-law, Johnny Santillanes, daughter-in-law, Kiley Hurd, granddaughters, Reagan Rodriguez, Bailey Santillanes and Brooklyn Riley, nephews, Brody Riley and Liam Riley. Kara is also survived by her mother, Kayleigh Carabajal and step-father, Lorenzo Carabajal, devoted sister, Shanon Riley and brother, Lee Riley. Kara was preceded in death by her father, Broier Riley Jr. and older brother, Broier Riley III. Services will be held on Friday, October 11, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at Riverside Church of Christ, 3100 La Orilla NW. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park, 924 Menaul Blvd. NE. Friends may visit French - Westside on Thursday, October 10, 2013 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.