Rufus Claude Giles

Rufus Claude Giles, 76, passed away peacefully Wednesday, January 23, 2013 at his home in Tarkington.
He was born on February 13, 1936 in Lake Charles, LA. He was raised in Forest Hill, LA with three brothers and seven sisters. He accepted Christ and was baptized as a child.

Rufus married Florence Carona on November 30, 1957. During their 55 years of marriage they built a large and loving family. He is survived by five children: Robin Hearn and husband, Cecil; Libby Peddicord and husband, Mark; Bridgette McMillan and husband, Bobby; Russell Giles and wife, Mary; and Crystal Bortz and husband, Michael. He is also survived by 18 grandchildren: Charlie Downing and wife, LaDonna; Misty Burkeen and husband, Perry; Austin Hearn, Christy Melton, Cory Hearn, Dustin Lavender, Chad Lavender and wife Rachel; Brittany Lavender, Jewel Tucker and husband, Jason; Brandon McMillan, Jason McMillan and wife, Lauren; Rachel McMillan, Jeromy Giles and wife, Crystal; Joshua Giles, Jonathon Giles, Emily Bortz, Garett Bortz and Graham Bortz. In addition, he is survived by 20 great grandchildren: Aryan, Ashlynn and Wyatt Downing; Jackie, Ty, Emily, Paige, Macie, Torie, Camie, Joe and Lindie Burkeen; Emaleigh, Natalie and Josh Melton; Aria Lavender, Logan Tucker, "New Baby" McMillan, Bow White and Corbin Giles.

Rufus was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin Giles and Pearl Odom Giles O'Connor, brother, Frank Giles and sisters, Shirley Bland and Dorothy Fields.

A memorial service for Mr. Giles will be held at 2:00 on Monday, January 28 at Rural Shade Baptist Church in Tarkington. All friends and family are invited to stay for visitation and fellowship at the church following the service.