James Richard “JR” Giles, 72, of Thedford, passed away at his home March 4, 2013.
He was born on July 9, 1940, to Grover Stanley (Dode) and Alice Aydelotte Giles on the family farm in rural Cherry County in the haymow, as the roof of the house was being rebuilt that summer. A neighborhood woman served as mid-wife, as there were no roads or doctors. He was home schooled until third grade and then attended country school until the eighth grade. He then attended Mullen High School, graduating in May 1957.
He married Linda Hughes in June 1962. To this union three children were born, Mallory Lancen, Michael Darien and Joan Elizabeth. They later divorced.
J.R. worked on farms, highway construction, in the oil fields, and on the gas pipeline construction. It was here he learned the trade of welding. In 1965, he went to work for Mallory Sand and Gravel in Thedford until 1990 when he bought the business and operated G3 until his death.
During his life, JR had many interests. He loved to read and was always interested in history. He also enjoyed cars and working on engines. He had a knack for rebuilding engines. JR also had interests in tractor pulls and guns and he was an avid supporter of the NRA. You could always find JR at the shop working on a project or repairing a piece of equipment or at home with a book in hand or the history channel on. JR also had a soft heart for animals and adopted many pets. One of his favorites was Chico.
JR was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Stanley and Joe; and his niece, Shelby Grace.
Surviving him are his sister, Patricia; and brother, David (Laura); his children, M. Lance, Michael and Joni Horst (Clay); five grandchildren, Damian, Darien, DeNae, Savanna and Nathan; close friends, Dan Wadas and Kort Hamilton; and many nephews, nieces and friends here in the Sandhills.
JR will be greatly missed for his wisdom and practical approach.
Memorials are suggested to the Thomas County Historical Society, Seneca Cemetery, Hillcrest Cemetery, Thedford or the Thomas County Fair Board.
A celebration of life will be at 4:30 p.m. (MDT), on Saturday, June 8, at the Seneca Auditorium. Arnold and Mullen Funeral Homes are in charge of arrangements.