Marion “Elaine” Biles, 91, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2026. She was born February 9, 1935, in Guilford, Indiana, the beloved daughter of Roy Souders and Belva Mason Souders. She graduated from Guilford High School in 1953 and went on to pursue her lifelong passion for caring for others by earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1957.
Elaine dedicated her professional life to serving others as a Registered Nurse. She began her nursing career at Decatur County Memorial Hospital, where she compassionately cared for patients and their families. Later, she continued her career at Catawba Valley Medical Center in North Carolina, where she faithfully served until her retirement. Her kindness, skill, and commitment to her patients left a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of working alongside her.
A woman of deep faith, Elaine was a devoted member of the First Methodist Church of Conover, North Carolina. Her faith guided her throughout her life and was reflected in her compassion, generosity, and unwavering love for her family and friends.
Above all else, Elaine cherished her family. She was a proud and loving mother who took great joy in watching her family grow and treasured every opportunity to spend time with those she loved.
Elaine is survived by her sons, Steven (Lisa) Biles of Fort Mill, South Carolina, and James (Kathy) Biles of Greensburg, Indiana; sister in law, Sara Elizabeth Bricker of Clemmons, North Carolina; and grandchildren, Matthew A. Biles, Jennifer L. Biles, Daniel J. Biles, Grace E. Biles.
She was preceded in death by her husband, William Allen “Bill” Biles, Jr.; parents, Roy and Belva Mason Souders; sisters, Norma Jean Huddleston and Shirley Mae Sounders.
A memorial service will be held at the First Methodist Church, 410 1St Avenue N, Conover, North Carolina 28613 at 3:00 pm on Friday, July 17, 2026. Pastor John Woods will be officiating. Inurnment will be at the First Methodist Church Columbarium. Memorial contributions can be made to the First Methodist Church. Online condolences can be made to the family at www.gilliland-howe.com
