John Edward Giles

Mr. John Edward Giles, age 76, a resident of Auburndale, Florida passed away Thursday, December 28, 2023 at his home surrounded by family. Mr. Giles was born October 28, 1947 in Lakeland, Florida to Ralph Willet and Madeline (Prater) Giles. He was a lifetime Polk County resident, graduated from Lakeland High School and was a United States Army Veteran serving in Vietnam as an MP. John continued his education at the University of Georgia with a Bachelor’s of Science in Agriculture. He received the Nursery Grower of the Year award in 1980-1981. John raced & drove late model stock cars both at Lakeland and Auburndale speedways, also raced motorcycles all over Florida at different flat/dirt tracks. He enjoyed football, NASCAR and spending time with his family. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother – Robert “Bobby” Lonnie Giles. John is survived by his loving & devoted family, son – Mark (Angela) Giles of Clermont, Florida; 2 daughters – Jennifer Giles (Mike “Frog”) Johnson and Amanda Giles (Chris) Register both of Auburndale, Florida; sister – Nancy Lee of ; 4 grandchildren – Justin, Karley (Sidney), Hunter & Raegan and 1 great grandchild – River. Funeral services will be 11am Tuesday, January 2nd at Kersey Funeral Home with visitation beginning 10am at the funeral home. Interment will follow with Military Honors at Auburndale Memorial Park.