Cora Giles

On the afternoon of July 20, 2020 Our Heavenly Father gently whispered for Cora M. Giles and called her home to be with Him. Cora was born on Sunday, July 25, 1937 to the late Walter Baker and Elizabeth (Big Mama) Smith. A virtuous wife, an abundantly loved mother, an irreplaceable sister, a cherished grandmother and great-grandmother, a blessed aunt, a trustworthy cousin, and respected friend. Cora was many things to many people. Cora was a product of Portsmouth Public schools. After completing her education, Cora began her legacy as a mother and a homemaker, willingly embracing her role until she was confident that a solid foundation had been laid for her family before pursuing a full-time career. As an attentive mother and homemaker, Cora embraced sewing, cooking, and crafting. Mama nurtured her family’s spiritual foundation by way of example and by lessons. Mama always had powerful, honest, and open advice whenever called upon and because of that unique wisdom she possessed, she was called upon quite often for guidance and consolation. Cora continued her legacy by being selected as one of the first group of female laborers introduced by the Norfolk Naval Shipyard. She later became an Apprentice for the Shipyard, concluding her career as a Warehouse Specialist-Nuclear. Cora retired from the Norfolk Naval shipyard after 20 years of government service. Cora’s Church home was New First Baptist Church Taylorsville in Portsmouth. She was a faithful and active member for approximately 33 years only slowing down as her illness progressed. Cora served Taylorsville as a member of the Shining Star Ministry, The Pastor’s Aide, and as Pastor’s Aide President. Cora has left a lifetime of wonderful memories in the hearts of her church family, clergy, and dear friends at New First Baptist Church Taylorsville. She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 42 year, Earl C. Giles, Sr., this union brought forth a loving family of five sons; Theoplis Griffin Jr. (Angela) of Chesapeake, Va., Clifton M. Griffin (Pamula) of Havelock, Nc., George G. Griffin (Geraldine) of Norfolk, Va., Earl C. Giles, Jr. (Wendy) of Portsmouth, Va., and Andre L. Giles (Kyra) of Portsmouth, Va.; a beloved sister Elizabeth White (Joseph), brother Michael Scales (Althea), and Sister in law Molly Rodgers (Famous). We would be remiss not to mention Cora’s special cousins Nancy Elliott, Brenda Miller, and Joyce Peoples. Cora also leaves treasured memories in the hearts of her ten grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, adopted family and close friends. 1 Attached Images

Cora Giles

July 25, 1937 - July 20, 2020