Karen Dupree Williams

President

Karen Dupree Williams is the President of Riley’s Army Triangle, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing support for children with cancer in North Carolina and their families. As a founding board member of the organization, Karen’s dedication to its mission is deeply personal. Karen’s connection to Riley’s Army Triangle stems from her relationship with Riley and her family. Riley, who was friends with Karen’s daughter, left an indelible mark on her heart. Determined to honor Riley’s legacy and provide support to children battling cancer, Karen spearheaded the establishment of Riley’s Army Triangle. In addition to her role with Riley’s Army Triangle, Karen is a respected business owner in the Triangle community. Her commitment to giving back led her to channel her passion for helping others into this non-profit organization. Through her leadership, Riley’s Army Triangle continues to make a profound impact, offering vital support, resources, and hope to children with cancer and their families throughout North Carolina.

Elizabeth Sexton

Vice-President

Elizabeth Sexton is the Vice President of the Riley’s Army Triangle Chapter. Her involvement with Riley’s Army began at a young age in the founding chapter in Greenville, NC. Elizabeth and Riley went to preschool together and played on the same soccer team. When Riley was diagnosed with cancer, Elizabeth and her mom would visit Riley on Tuesday nights, bringing her favorite cheese pizza with light sauce. They spent those evenings playing in the pediatric playroom, even turning her chemo line into a limbo game once. Elizabeth has fond memories of their friendship, and Riley’s kind and caring heart surpassed that of any other kid her age. Riley wanted to give other children the support that her “army” had given her. Elizabeth expresses that it is an honor to continue Riley’s legacy through her work with the Triangle Chapter of Riley’s Army.

Jean Adams

Family Liaison, Treasurer

Jean, aka Mama Jean, was involved with Riley’s Army Greenville for many years, serving as Riley’s Army Greenville Board President for a few of those years! She has been an important part of the development of Triangle’s programs. Once Mama Jean retired she relocated to Middlesex, NC, we knew that God placed her where she needed to be – she would become an integral part of the Triangle Chapter and serve as the family liaison for families in Western NC.

Elizabeth Arthur

Secretary Elizabeth Arthur is the Secretary of Riley’s Army Triangle and is committed to supporting the children with cancer and their families in the Triangle area. She has previously served on the board of another community cancer service in Greenville NC. Upon relocating to Cary, Elizabeth was fortunate to find Riley’s Army Triangle and continue supporting her community

Lori Earls

Board Member

Lori became involved with Riley’s Army while she was working at ECU Pathology and seeing that cancer has no age discrimination. She became a hospital volunteer with Riley’s Army to deliver meals, vist the children and give the parents a break when needed. During the COVID-19 pandemic, volunteers were not allowed in the hospital, so she began volunteering with American Red Cross because, as you know, cancer treatment causes many kids and adults to need blood products. Her passion has always been with the children and she is honored to be working with Riley’s Army Triangle.

Racheal Dinka

Board Member

As a new board member of Riley’s Army Triangle in 2025, Racheal is excited to support families with pediatric cancer, as her father was diagnosed with cancer twice throughout her childhood. Racheal understands the toll it took on her family and how much support they needed during treatment. Racheal is passionate about, and feels as though it is an honor, to provide that support to families through Riley’s Army Triangle. She is grateful that she hosted a Riley’s Army Triangle event for our families as it led her to an amazing opportunity that she had been longing for. 

Jacy Morris Phaneuf

Director

Jacy’s journey with Riley’s Army began as an intern with the Greenville chapter, where she developed a deep commitment to the cause. Her dedication is driven by personal experiences, having had family members who battled childhood cancer. Jacy holds a Bachelor of Science in Family and Community Services with a concentration in Child Development from East Carolina University and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Social Work at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Jacy’s blend of academic expertise and personal passion fuels her work, making a significant impact in the lives of children and families she serves.