James A. Wiles

James, known by Jim to his friends, was a lifetime resident of South Carolina primarily in Columbia, with a short stint in Greenwood, and more recently enjoying the country life of Pelion. He loved the outdoors and horticulture, making a career out of his passion after graduating from Anderson College. James spent many years working with the University of South Carolina managing the grounds. He was an avid gardener who took well-deserved pride in his homegrown vegetables, flowers, overall landscaping, and house plants. His last days included a smuggled orchid into the ICU that he was missing from home and several attempts to rehome his many Christmas cacti. Jim was a ‘social butterfly,’ always making friends wherever he went, enjoying an active social life.

James was predeceased by his parents, Frank Harper Sr and Mary Barnett Wiles; aunt, Fran Hook- who was more like a sister; partner, Gordon Grening. He is survived by his brothers, Henry B Wiles, M.D. (Cynthia) and Frank H Wiles Jr; children, Michael Perry Wiles and Alicia McKenzie Godoy (Jon); grandchildren, Payson and Lana; nephews, John Wiles, Mark Wiles and Luke Wiles; niece, Emily Heimbrook; cousin, Debbie Hooker (Jerry); best friend, Joe Addison and many others who will miss him greatly.

Family and friends will gather to celebrate his life and share stories Sunday August 20th from 5-6pm, followed by a short service at Dunbar Funeral Home, 3926 Devine St, Columbia, SC.

If you would like to donate in memory of James, the family suggests ALS Association.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.dunbarfuneralhomedevine.com for the Wiles family.