Cornelius Walker Giles, Jr.

Cornelius Walker Giles, Jr., 94, died, Tuesday, May 23, 2017. He was born February 13, 1923, in Birmingham, Alabama, the second of three children.

C.W. was a founding member of Parkway Methodist Church, enthusiastic participant in the Civitan Club, and an active member of the veteran community including lifetime memberships in the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Disabled American Veterans. He played football for Ramsey High School and served in Europe with the Army Air Corps during WWII. He graduated from API (Auburn) where he met the love of his life. In 1950, he and Grace Ward were married in Fairhope, AL. He retired from the Treasury Department in 1973 and subsequently worked at Hargett’s Auto Electric Service in Florence. Throughout his life he served the youth in his community working with church youth groups, Boy Scouts, and supporting charitable organizations including Restoration Ranch. He also performed numerous Christian mission trips throughout the world where he spread the love and saving grace of Jesus through his encouraging spirit and helping hands.

A memorial service will be held at 11 AM, Saturday, June 3rd at Parkway Methodist Church on Cox Creek Parkway. Pastor Tim Long will officiate.

Corny was preceded in death by his parents, Cornelius Walker and Elvira Rodriquez Giles; sisters, Elvira Giles Southworth, Frances Giles Eastis, and his wife of 66 years, Grace.

He is survived by his loving daughters, Beth (John) Hargett, Karen (Terry) Thigpen, Robin Long, and Debbie (Tim) Long; son, Neil Giles; 16 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.

Special thanks to Hospice of Tennessee Valley in Florence.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Restoration Ranch or Hospice of Tennessee Valley.

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