Bobby Alfred Giles, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and community servant, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, kindness, and service. Born on November 26, 1943, in Greenville, Texas, Bobby was the son of Lloyd and Ouida Rice Giles. He grew up in Emory, Texas, where strong values of hard work and family were deeply rooted in his upbringing.
A proud graduate of Rains High School in 1962 and East Texas State University in 1966, Bob began his career in service. He answered the call to serve his country, entering the U.S. Army and commissioning as a Second Lieutenant. Stationed at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Bob served in the Adjutant General Corps for three years, rising to the rank of First Lieutenant and receiving the Army Commendation Medal; before his honorable discharge in 1969. His commitment to service continued in the Army Reserve, where he retired in 1986 as a Major.
In 1968, Bobby married the love of his life, Sandra Hewett, in San Antonio. Together, they built a life filled with love and laughter, raising three beautiful children who would carry forward their legacy of kindness and service.
Bob dedicated 35 years to the USDA Rural Development program, retiring in 2000. But his work didn’t stop there. For 55 years, he operated a successful cattle business across Rains and Van Zandt Counties.
His commitment to community was unwavering. Bob was an active member of the Canton Lions Club for 54 years, serving two terms as President and Zone Chairman. In 2019, he was honored as the Canton Texas Chamber of Commerce Volunteer of the Year and named a Jack Wiech Fellow for his devoted service to the children of the Texas Lions Camp in Kerrville.
A man of faith, Bob attended Canton First Baptist Church, where he found strength, truth, and fellowship.
Bobby was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Ouida Giles, and his brothers, Lloyd Ernest Giles (and wife Doris) and Charles Giles.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Sandra, and their children: Barbara Annalynn Sanders and husband Scot of Heath, Texas; Steve Giles of Driftwood, Texas; and Brian Giles and wife Debra of Combine, Texas. His legacy continues through his grandchildren Joelle, Micah Cate, Audrey, Connor (and wife Juliana), Nicole and his great-granddaughter, Maya. He’s also survived by his sister-in-law, Vickie, and by multiple nieces and nephews.
Bobby’s life was a testament to service, love of Christ and of family. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. His story lives on in the hearts of those he touched and the family he cherished.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to FBC Canton Next Level Building Fund, Texas Lions Camp of Kerrville or to the Hospice of East Texas, Tyler.