Bob Riley was born in Little Rock, Arkansas. He attended public schools in Little Rock.
Riley served in the United States Army during World War II.
Riley graduated from the University of Arkansas in 1950. Obtained his Master's degree from University of Arkansas in 1951.
Served as a member of the Arkansas House of Representatives from 1946 to 1950.
Riley taught at Little Rock University from 1951-1955.
Riley received his Doctorate in education from the University of Arkansas in 1957.
He then took a post at Ouachita Baptist University at Arkadelphia. He served on the Arkadelphia City Council from 1960-1966 and served as Mayor in 1966 and 1967.
Served as Lieutenant Governor of Arkansas from 1971-1975.
Became Governor of Arkansas in 1975 to serve out the final 10 days of the unexpired term of then Senator-elect Dale Bumpers.
Riley taught at Ouachita Baptist University until his death on 16 February 1994.