Paul Giles

Paul E. Giles, 84, of Washington, passed away on Friday, December 6, 2024, at Carle Health Proctor in Peoria, IL.

He was born on September 28, 1940, in Peoria, the son of Richard and Edith Towne Giles. Paul married the love of his life, Kay McIntyre, on February 7, 1959, in East Peoria, IL. She passed away on May 25, 2023. Paul was also preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Jerry.

Paul is survived by four wonderful children: Marsha (Chuck) Bishoff of Washington, Mark (Jackie Watson) Giles of Neosho, MO, Brian (Linda) Giles of Satellite Beach, FL, and Paula (Darin Joos) Garrison of Urbana, IL. Pauls is also survived by nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life. Further, surviving is one brother, Larry (Emily) Giles of Mabank, TX.

After overcoming the early challenges in his education, Paul channeled his experiences into a relentless drive for personal and professional growth. His career was characterized by a series of triumphs that not only proved his doubters wrong but also inspired many who knew his story.

Paul worked hard and left behind many projects he had accomplished for his family and friends. He was always thankful that Olen Spurgeon took a chance on him and hired him to become a heavy equipment operator. He worked for Spurgeon Construction for nearly 40 years, retiring in 2004. While young, with two children and one on the way, he built the home he and Kay shared the rest of their lives. From helping his son repair a car to adding on a sunroom, there was nothing that Paul wouldn't attempt. We all have something we can look at in our homes that he had repaired, painted, or changed for us.

After retirement, he and Kay were able to travel and spend time in Florida during the winter for a couple of months. They had taken several trips before he became ill and couldn't travel. He had 19 days spent in the hospital in April of 2021 with Covid. Paul came home on hospice in April 2021, but God had other plans for him. He worked his way back to be able to take care of himself and do what he could while being on oxygen.

He volunteered at Camp Good News after retirement and enjoyed being able to help with projects at the camp. After he was unable to help at the camp, he would keep in touch to offer advice on a project. Operation Christmas Child was another project he enjoyed by helping load the boxes for shipment onto the trucks. His work ethic was passed on to his children and grandchildren. His generosity touched several charities. His family was with him on September 22 this year, and he went before the church to rededicate his life to Christ. This was a very special moment that brought tears to our eyes. Paul felt strongly about his faith, family, friends, and this country.

Cremation Rites have been accorded. A private graveside service will be held at Hillcrest Memory Gardens in rural Morton at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name may be given to Washington Christian Church, 1012 North Main in Washington. Mason-White Funeral Home in Washington is assisting the family with arrangements. To share a memory or send a condolence to his family, visit www.masonfuneralhomes.com.