Herbert Oliver Giles

November 21, 1937 – February 3, 2026

Herbert Oliver Giles, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and professor, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2026, in Tigard, Oregon, at the age of 88, surrounded by family.

Born and raised in Oklahoma City, Herb attended Corpus Christi Catholic School, St. Gregory’s School, and graduated from John Marshall High School, where he ran track and formed lifelong friendships. He earned his undergraduate degree in Business Administration from Oklahoma City University and began his career in sales and marketing before discovering his true calling in education.

Herb returned to Oklahoma City University to earn a master’s degree while teaching, and later earned a PhD in Economic Geography from the University of Oklahoma—an achievement he regarded with great pride. Teaching was more than a profession for Herb; it was a lifelong passion. He loved ideas, thoughtful inquiry, and the discipline of learning, carrying that intellectual curiosity into every chapter of his life. He also worked as a consultant, applying academic rigor to practical challenges. After decades of service in higher education, he retired as Emeritus Professor of Marketing at the University of Central Oklahoma.

Later in life, Herb and Carol moved to Portland, Oregon, to be closer to their children and grandchildren, while frequently traveling to Chicago to spend time with family there as well. In Portland, Herb enjoyed golf at his home course, Summerfield Golf Club, long conversations, and his years with his beloved wife, Carol, with whom he celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary this past year.

Herb was preceded in death by his father, Walter Charles Giles; his mother, Virginia Claire Ruth; his brother, Duke Giles; and his son, Daniel Edward Giles.

He is survived by his wife, Carol Giles; his children, Peter Giles and his wife Dorothy (and their children, Gavin and Lexie Giles), Jennifer Giles and her husband John Okon (and their son, Samuel Okon), Carrie Meyer (and her children, Lyra and Brody Meyer), and Philip Giles; and his sister, Debbie Gowder. He is also remembered by many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and former students.

Herb will be remembered for his devotion to family, his love of teaching, and his enduring intellectual curiosity. His legacy lives on through the lives he shaped as a father, grandfather, professor, and friend.

A funeral Mass will be held at Epiphany of the Lord Catholic Church, 7336 West Britton Road, Oklahoma City, on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 10:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Herb’s name may be made to support the University of Central Oklahoma College of Business at:

https://www.centralconnection.org/giles