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William M. Giles, 79

William M. Giles, son of the late Frank M. and Jessie L. (Hancock) Giles, was born on Jan. 31, 1933 in Drury, Mo., and departed this life on Sunday, June 24, 2012 at his residence in Rogersville, Mo., following a long illness.  He was 79 years, 4 months and 24 days of age.

William grew up in Douglas County and graduated from Ava High School in Ava, Mo.  He served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War and the Vietnam Conflict and was honorably discharged on Nov. 7, 1966.  He was a member of the Fleet Marines while serving in the Navy.  He retired from the Navy on March 18, 1974 as a Damage Control Senior Chief.

He was united in marriage to Evelyn Clark in November of 1957 in Mississippi.  For the past 37 years they made their home in the Rogersville area.

William greatly enjoyed being outdoors, especially when fishing at Bull Shoals Lake and in area streams.  He also enjoyed going to the race horse track in Hot Springs, Ark. whenever he got the chance.

William liked to garden each year and following his retirement, he enjoyed helping his father on the family farm in Drury.

He was a loving and caring son, husband, brother, neighbor, and friend.  He will be truly missed by those who knew and loved him.

William is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Evelyn Giles, of their home; one brother: Robert Giles and his wife, Adelia, of Rogersville, Mo.; one sister: Doris Clark and her husband, Murrell, of Mtn. Grove, Mo.; and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services for William Giles were held on Wednesday, June 27 at 10:30 in the Craig-Hurtt Chapel with Rev. Gail “Bud” Scherer officiating. Song selections were “I’ll Meet You In The Morning,” “Peace In The Valley,” and “I’ll Fly Away.”  Jared Moore served as singer and musician.  Pallbearers were Dick Clark, Rick Wooldridge, Stanley Clark, Gary Clark, Rick Wooldridge, Jr., and Tyler Clark.  Honorary pallbearers were Josie Clark, Robert Lee Clark, Wayne Underwood, Rick Stout, Charles Jenkins, and Bob Hathcock. Burial was in the New Hope Cemetery in Douglas County with full military honors by the American Legion Post 30 and the United States Navy Burial Detail Team.  The Patriot Guard Riders led the procession to the cemetery.  Arrangements were under the direction of the Craig-Hurtt Funeral Home, Mtn. Grove, Mo.

Online condolences:  www.craig hurttfuneralhome.com.