James Wilbur Jiles Jr.

James “Gunny” Wilbur Jiles, Jr., 80 of Waynesville, NC passed away on Friday, November 29, 2024, surrounded by his family. James was born in Jackson County on June 6, 1944, to the late James Sr. and Janie Reagan Jiles. James was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hiking and biking. He served his country honorably for 30 years in the US Marine Corps. James also worked for the Waynesville Police Department and retired from the Haywood County Sheriff's Office as a School Resource Officer.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his sister, Sandra Jiles.

James is survived by his loving wife, Linda Barnes Jiles; three daughters, Jennifer Tortora (Frank), Fredda Wallace (Rick) and Chrisanna Carver (Chad); sister, Linda Servoss; grandchildren, Frank L. Tortora, III, Elise Tortora, Joseph Tortora, Alexander Wallace, and Hannah Mattocks; six great-grandchildren, nieces, Amanda Smith and Erin Candler; and his beloved dog, Minnie.

A Memorial Service celebrating James’ life will be held at 2:00 pm on January 11, 2025, in the chapel of Garrett Funerals and Cremations. The family will receive friends from 12-2 pm prior to the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tunnels to Towers at t2t.org/donate/ and Sarge's Animal Rescue at sarges.harnessgiving.org

Garrett Funerals and Cremations is caring for the Jiles family. www.garrettfuneralsandcremations.com