John Edwin Giles

John Edwin Giles, age 82, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026, after a courageous nine-year battle with cancer, with his three children by his side, just as he had always hoped.

John spent his younger years in Kearns, Utah where he graduated from Granger High School. He later attended Brigham Young University, graduating in 1974 with a Bachelor of Science degree. As an adult, he lived in Brigham City before spending his later years in West Jordan and Murray, Utah.

John dedicated more than 20 years of service to the Utah State Department of Human Services before retiring. Retirement did not mark the end of his desire to serve others. He found great joy working as a substitute teacher at South Valley School, where he especially loved helping adult students with special needs develop functional life skills. His patience, kindness, and genuine care left a lasting impression on the students and staff whose lives he touched.

John was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Those who knew John will remember his love of sports and his enthusiasm for talking about games, teams, and players with anyone willing to join the conversation. In his later years, he became a familiar face at Murray Park, where he could often be found walking miles each day. It was important to John to make a personal connection with everyone he met, whether through a friendly conversation, a shared laugh, or simply taking the time to ask how someone was doing. Many who crossed his path were greeted with a smile, a joke, and genuine interest in their lives. Above all, John was known for his incredible sense of humor, which stayed with him until the very end. Even throughout his long battle with cancer, he continued to bring laughter to those around him.

The greatest joy of John's life was his family. He was never happier than when he was spending time with his children and grandchildren, sharing stories, laughter, and creating memories they will cherish forever.

John is lovingly survived by his children, Jodette Giles Holt (Rob); Ryan Giles; and McKenzie Giles Williams (Jaxon). He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Alec, Kiersten, and Zach Holt; Madi and Jarett Giles; and Eden and Milo Williams. He is also survived by his sister, Kathy Broadhead; his brother, Larry Giles; and his sisters-in-law, Margaret and Tammy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Betty Lou and John L. Giles; his brothers, Danny and Scott Giles; his sister, Sheri; and his sister-in-law, Judy.

John's legacy is one of kindness, quiet service, resilience, and humor. Whether through his career in public service, his work with students, his daily walks through Murray Park, or simply sharing a laugh with family and friends, he made the lives of others brighter. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, July 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at South Jordan Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to gather as they celebrate John's life and honor his memory.