Joyce L Giles

Joyce Dunn Giles, age 80, a resident of Lewisburg, Tennessee, passed away on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Born on December 4, 1945, in Altus, Oklahoma, Joyce was the daughter of the late Stanley Dunn and the late Essie Dobbins Dunn. A woman of unwavering faith and a heart for serving others, Joyce founded The Lord’s House of Prayer in 1991, holding its first gatherings beneath a tree at her home. Her dedication to the church was evident in the countless sacrifices she made, often giving her entire paycheck to help keep its doors open. Her church was a central part of her life, and she found great joy in worshipping the Lord through song.

On October 30, 1962, Joyce married Larry Edward Giles with whom she shared nearly fifty-nine years of marriage before his passing on August 27, 2021. She was an avid University of Alabama football fan who enjoyed cheering on the Crimson Tide. Above all, Joyce treasured her family and the time spent with those she loved. Her steadfast faith, generous spirit, and deep love for her family will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

She is survived by her children, Michael (Donnette) Giles of Lewisburg, Tim (Tina) Giles of Shelbyville, Robert (Linda) Giles of Petersburg, Angie (Russ) Whittle of Lewisburg, Melissa (Tony) Wilburn of Lewisburg, stepdaughter, LoraJean Hancock of Georgia, twenty-five grandchildren, fifty great grandchildren, and ten great great grandchildren.

The family will celebrate her life with a memorial service at a later date. Heritage Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.