Thomas Allen Giles

Thomas Allen Giles, 85, quietly entered eternal rest on Monday, December 25, 2023. Thomas was born on May 7, 1938 to the late James D. Giles and Berthena M. Giles in Hanover County. Thomas married his elementary school sweetheart, Janice Johnson Giles, on December 17, 1960. Of this union, three children – Cynthia Giles-Parker, Thomas A. Giles II, and Chanda J. Giles – were born.

At an early age, he was baptized at Bethany Baptist Church which he faithfully served for the rest of his life. In addition to being a member of Bethany, he also served on the Usher Board for more than 60 years, becoming the president in 1999. Under his leadership, the Usher Board was renamed the Usher Ministry. He also helped raise money to purchase “Reserved” banners for church anniversaries and special occasions. As president, Thomas saw the need to have an Ushers’ Manual and one was provided for each member. Thomas also served as a church Trustee and chairman for a number of years.

Thomas graduated from John M. Gandy High School in 1957 where he played baseball and basketball. After finishing high school, Thomas worked for Kingan’s (Hygrade). Afterward, he worked as a truck driver for Richfood, a wholesale food distributor, for 30 years and retired in 2000. Following his retirement from Richfood, Thomas was a shuttle bus driver for Richmond International Airport and Henrico Doctors’ Hospital, and a school bus driver for the Hanover County School District. Additionally, he worked for Owens Funeral Services for a number of years.

Thomas was a Mason for more than 50 years and a member of the Pride of Hanover Lodge 264 in Ashland, VA.

Thomas was well known for his passion for collecting cars and could be found attending car shows all the time. He was a member of the Richmond Metropolitan Antique Car Club where he also served as the chaplain. He sponsored multiple car shows in Hanover County, raising money for the Hanover County Community Center. He enjoyed traveling to visit his children, and vacationing on cruises. Thomas also enjoyed golfing and kept a meticulous lawn.

Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, James D. Giles and Berthena M. Giles, and siblings, Robert D. Giles and Bertha V. Giles. He leaves to cherish his memories: his wife, Janice Johnson Giles; children, Cynthia Giles-Parker (Bernard), Thomas A. Giles II (Karla), and Chanda J. Giles; grandchildren, Alexandria C. Yates, Langley C. Parker, and Carter M. Giles; great-grandson, Joshua Yates; sister, Mary Anderson (Ralph); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.