Celebrating the life of
Jack S. Liles, Sr.
January 26, 1928 - January 25, 2016
Clemson University Class of 1949
Skidaway Island - Jack S. Liles, Sr., 87, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2016 in the comfort of his home and in the care of his family. He was born in Highpoint, North Carolina, son of Sherwood E. and Emma Welch Liles.
Jack was reared in Charlotte, North Carolina where he attended high school graduating early so he could start his education in the Clemson University ROTC program. He was born into this love of Clemson with his father, class of 1900, brothers, Sam and Dick Liles, preceding him there. He was a distinguished military student and was a member of the Senior Platoon that performed at Yankee Stadium. In 1949, he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering and an appointment as second lieutenant in the U.S. Army.
Upon graduation, Jack joined Tidewater Construction Corporation, Engineers and General Contractor as a Field Engineer based out of Norfolk, Virginia. Tidewater is internationally known as the General Manager and Constructor of the seventeen mile Chesapeake Bay Bridge and Tunnel Crossing. Jack’s first assignment as a young Field Engineer was the major reconstruction of F.J. Torras Bridges and Causeway Crossing between Brunswick, Georgia and St. Simons Island, Georgia. It was here at St. Simon’s Island that Jack met his beloved wife of fifty-seven years, the late Ruth P. “Dickie” Liles. Together they had four children.
It was not long before Jack’s talent, grit, and leadership was recognized and he was promoted to Project Engineer. As his career advanced, he traveled throughout the Southeast managing major highway transportation projects and industrial facilities. In 1960, Jack was promoted to General Manager and tasked with establishing a regional office in Tampa, Florida.
Jack was elected Vice President of Tidewater’s Industrial Division and a member of the Board of Directors in 1970. In 1984, at the request of Tidewater’s Board of Directors, Jack accepted the role of President and CEO of Tidewater Construction Corporation. Jack was known throughout the industry as “that Clemson engineer”; a faith-based man with impeccable character who could “get the job done”. His management style was based on team building and consensus and he focused on retaining loyal employees and encouraging employee ownership, safety, quality of work, and customer satisfaction. On January 1, 1990, after forty years of service, Jack retired from Tidewater Construction Corporation. Jack will always be remembered as the leader who put his team first, even at his own expense.
Jack and Dickie retired to Savannah, Georgia, and began returning to Clemson as often as possible. They purchased a second home in Clemson to give the entire family a place to gather. Their children and grandchildren always joined them to spend fall weekends together cheering on their beloved Tigers. He has thoroughly enjoyed being back in the hills of Clemson!
Jack’s service to Clemson is part of a long legacy of the Liles family. He, along with his three brothers, established the Sherwood E. Liles Engineering Scholarship in memory of their father. Jack has been an IPTAY Donor for sixty-seven consecutive years and is now a Life Donor. In addition, he has been a Clemson Loyalty Fund donor for sixty-six consecutive years and was a Class of ’49 Golden Anniversary Scholarship Donor. Currently, Jack is a faithful member of Skidaway Island United Methodist Church, has been recognized for his twenty years of campaigning for the United Way, and is a loyal supporter of the Bethesda Home for Boys. Being a giver has been in his character all his life as he has always supported a multitude of charitable organizations.
Jack was a true southern gentleman, quiet, elegant, quick witted with deep insight. He was guided by traditional family values and unwavering ethical standards; he has been an inspiration to many in his professional engineering career, and to his family. Never loud, boastful or arrogant, he speaks little about himself, but remembers with detail those in his life who he admired and enjoyed. A steadfastness and loyalty is the mark of his character, which is now, as always expressed within his family relations, in support to his old friends and church, and for his alma mater Clemson.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth Padgett Liles and nine siblings.
Surviving are his children, Jenna Liles Byrne of Willits, CA; Laura Liles Marshall of Savannah, GA; Jack S. (Debbie) Liles, Jr. of Norfolk, VA; J. Richard (Susan) Liles of Florence, SC; nine grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Clemson University Foundation-“CUF” memo: In memory of Jack Liles / Clemson Golf Program, mailed to IPTAY, P. O .Box 1529, Clemson, SC 29633, Atten: Connie Gilbreth.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 30, 2016 at Skidaway Island United Methodist Church.
The family wished to thank caregivers, Keil Brown, Lennette Chaney and Monique Polite for their compassion and excellent healthcare given their father.
Please sign our online guestbook at www.foxandweeks.com
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
On behalf of the Virginia Transportation Construction Alliance (the old "road builders association") I write to express our condolences. Jack was an active supporter during his career with Tidewater. He was a leader, and inspiration, and simply a fine man.
- Jan Morehead, Richmond, VA
Jack, Debbie & Family: We were very sorry to read in the paper of Mr. Liles' passing. You and your family have our deepest sympathy and may God be with each and every one of you at this sad time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
- Durwood & Carolyn Scott, Windsor, VA
I am very sorry to hear of Jack's passing . We worked together for many years at Tidewater and I have a lot of fond memories of those many years. Jacks passing ends an era in the history of Tidewater as he is the last of the three Lles brothers to leave us. He taught me a lot and is one of the people who helped me along at Todewater. I oee him for the confidence he placed in me. He will be missed.
- Bob Walker, Birginia Beach, Va
I'm so sorry for your loss. My dad worked for Tidewater Construction and had fond memories of helping to build the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. I know you'll miss Mr. Liles as much as I miss my dad. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
- Donna Sanders Corbus, Portsmouth, VA
I am very torn up by this. Both of your parents were so Big in my life, so steady, so accepting. Dad's humor and generosity and steadiness were and still are very important ideals for me to try and emulate. A good man, a kind man, a very forgiving man. And He knew how to have a good time, too. I know I put him through a lot of changes and challenges early on, but he never gave up on me. Though I never thought I sought his approval, I always rejoiced, inside, when it was there, and his simple, true values gave such strength to his family and to me. Both Jack and Ruth held family in the highest regard, dedicated their lives to their children and grandchildren. May their Love and Kindness always shine through and be reflected in their Family.
- William Byrne, Willits, CA
Jenna,Laura,Jack and Richard- you and your families are in my prayers at this sad time. You father was a wonderful man and a caring brother to my step-father. I remember how much fun my mother and step-father had with Dickie and Jack and how they always looked forward to their visits. Bunny Neff kovner Virginia Beach, vA
- Bunny Kovner, Virginia Beach, , VA
Jack, Please accept and extend my condolences to you and your family on the passing of your Father. I have very fond memories of him. He was truly a very good man. May God bless Him and your family. Henry Bouffard
- Henry Bouffard, Norfolk, VA
On behalf of the Leon Hartman family, (Richard, Thomas" and Betsy Hartman Wright, we wish to offer condolences. Leon worked with Jack on the Bay Bridge tunnel, and other projects.
- Roger Wrigh, Norfolk, VA
My deepest condolences to Laura, Richard, Jackie, and Jenna. Your father will be missed so much. As Laura and I grew up together over the years, I spent a lot of time in his home. I will always remember his warm smile and how he made me feel so welcome there. I will remember his endless sense of humor, his beloved companion Rocky (aka Pee Wee), his VERY large golf club collection on the ceiling, and his image standing in the driveway at Larkspur always calling to Laura and I to "wear your seatbelts" as we pulled out of the driveway. My thoughts and prayers are with you all as you mourn the loss of your father, you truly had a great one! XOXOX
- Kim (Miller) Wright, Virginia Beach, VA
One of the finest gentelman I have ever know. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Liles family.
- James D. Finley III, Va. Beach, Va
Heartfelt condolences to Richard, Jackie, Jenna and Laura. Uncle Jack was an amazing man. He was kind, caring, and a loving brother to my step-father Dick Liles. I was able to spend many occasions with Uncle Jack and Aunt Dickie when they lived here in Virginia Beach and when they would come back for visits.It was a real honor knowing them and their wonderful children. Many blessings to his surviving children and family members.
- David Neff, Virginia Beach, Va.
We will miss seeing Jack at "The Towers". What a delightful person he was. His warm and gentle demeanor made him such a delight to be around. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Ann & Walter Hunter
- Ann & Walter Hunter, Columbia, SC
We met Jack at Clemson Towers, such a nice person. We will miss seeing him and talking to him when we go to Clemson. Our prayers are with your family for your loss.
- Robert & Sandra Shealy, Chapin, SC
Sam and I only knew Jack a short time. We owned the condo under his at the Towers. We learned to appreciate his gentle demeanor and polite sophistication. It pleases me to know he and your Mom enjoyed dancing as Sam and I do. I used to say to him that I heard him 'dancing ' upstairs. And when we passed him at his seat in the stadium , I always got a hug and a sweet smile. We will miss him and will always think of him fondly.Nancy and Sam Drake
- Dr Sam and Nancy Drake, Gastonia, NC
Dear family, I met Jack through Clemson Towers and really enjoyed our acquaintance. I am really sorry to learn of his death, and will be praying for you. Jim
- Jim Hazel , Charlotte , NC
Richard and family , we are so sorry for your loss. We will be praying for all your family. After reading about your Dad you are surely blessed with many great memories and his wonderful legacy. He truly seemed like he was a wonderful man and you certainly reflect his influence in your character. May God comfort you during this time and continue to bless your family.
- Joanne and Keith Jensen, Florence, SC
Jenna, Laura, Jack and Richard - our deepest condolences for the loss of your Dad. The Long family shares in your sadness and our prayers are with you. He will be greatly missed!
- Catherine Long Howard, Charlotte, NC
Richard, we are so sorry about the loss of your dad. Sending love and prayers.
- Jerry and Becky Pickens, Cross Hill, SC
Richard, we are so sorry about the loss of your dad. Sending love and prayers.
- Jerry and Becky Pickens, Cross Hill, SC
One of the finest men I have known, I will miss Jack very much.
- Gary Barnes, Clemson, SC
My family & I were blessed to know both Mr. and Mrs. Liles. Their kindness and generosity will always be remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are offered for their loved ones, especially Richard, Susan, Zack & Rachel. Jack and Dickie are forever reunited in God's Kingdom. Mike, Amy, Cauley, Hallie, Parker & Kensleigh. Go Tigers!
- Mike Simmons family, Anderson, SC
On behalf of the Virginia Transportation Construction Alliance (the old "road builders association") I write to express our condolences. Jack was an active supporter during his career with Tidewater. He was a leader, and inspiration, and simply a fine man.
- Jan Morehead, Richmond, VA
Jack, Debbie & Family: We were very sorry to read in the paper of Mr. Liles' passing. You and your family have our deepest sympathy and may God be with each and every one of you at this sad time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
- Durwood & Carolyn Scott, Windsor, VA
I am very sorry to hear of Jack's passing . We worked together for many years at Tidewater and I have a lot of fond memories of those many years. Jacks passing ends an era in the history of Tidewater as he is the last of the three Lles brothers to leave us. He taught me a lot and is one of the people who helped me along at Todewater. I oee him for the confidence he placed in me. He will be missed.
- Bob Walker, Birginia Beach, Va
I'm so sorry for your loss. My dad worked for Tidewater Construction and had fond memories of helping to build the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. I know you'll miss Mr. Liles as much as I miss my dad. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
- Donna Sanders Corbus, Portsmouth, VA
I am very torn up by this. Both of your parents were so Big in my life, so steady, so accepting. Dad's humor and generosity and steadiness were and still are very important ideals for me to try and emulate. A good man, a kind man, a very forgiving man. And He knew how to have a good time, too. I know I put him through a lot of changes and challenges early on, but he never gave up on me. Though I never thought I sought his approval, I always rejoiced, inside, when it was there, and his simple, true values gave such strength to his family and to me. Both Jack and Ruth held family in the highest regard, dedicated their lives to their children and grandchildren. May their Love and Kindness always shine through and be reflected in their Family.
- William Byrne, Willits, CA
Jenna,Laura,Jack and Richard- you and your families are in my prayers at this sad time. You father was a wonderful man and a caring brother to my step-father. I remember how much fun my mother and step-father had with Dickie and Jack and how they always looked forward to their visits. Bunny Neff kovner Virginia Beach, vA
- Bunny Kovner, Virginia Beach, , VA
Jack, Please accept and extend my condolences to you and your family on the passing of your Father. I have very fond memories of him. He was truly a very good man. May God bless Him and your family. Henry Bouffard
- Henry Bouffard, Norfolk, VA
On behalf of the Leon Hartman family, (Richard, Thomas" and Betsy Hartman Wright, we wish to offer condolences. Leon worked with Jack on the Bay Bridge tunnel, and other projects.
- Roger Wrigh, Norfolk, VA
My deepest condolences to Laura, Richard, Jackie, and Jenna. Your father will be missed so much. As Laura and I grew up together over the years, I spent a lot of time in his home. I will always remember his warm smile and how he made me feel so welcome there. I will remember his endless sense of humor, his beloved companion Rocky (aka Pee Wee), his VERY large golf club collection on the ceiling, and his image standing in the driveway at Larkspur always calling to Laura and I to "wear your seatbelts" as we pulled out of the driveway. My thoughts and prayers are with you all as you mourn the loss of your father, you truly had a great one! XOXOX
- Kim (Miller) Wright, Virginia Beach, VA
One of the finest gentelman I have ever know. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Liles family.
- James D. Finley III, Va. Beach, Va
Heartfelt condolences to Richard, Jackie, Jenna and Laura. Uncle Jack was an amazing man. He was kind, caring, and a loving brother to my step-father Dick Liles. I was able to spend many occasions with Uncle Jack and Aunt Dickie when they lived here in Virginia Beach and when they would come back for visits.It was a real honor knowing them and their wonderful children. Many blessings to his surviving children and family members.
- David Neff, Virginia Beach, Va.
We will miss seeing Jack at "The Towers". What a delightful person he was. His warm and gentle demeanor made him such a delight to be around. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Ann & Walter Hunter
- Ann & Walter Hunter, Columbia, SC
We met Jack at Clemson Towers, such a nice person. We will miss seeing him and talking to him when we go to Clemson. Our prayers are with your family for your loss.
- Robert & Sandra Shealy, Chapin, SC
Sam and I only knew Jack a short time. We owned the condo under his at the Towers. We learned to appreciate his gentle demeanor and polite sophistication. It pleases me to know he and your Mom enjoyed dancing as Sam and I do. I used to say to him that I heard him 'dancing ' upstairs. And when we passed him at his seat in the stadium , I always got a hug and a sweet smile. We will miss him and will always think of him fondly.Nancy and Sam Drake
- Dr Sam and Nancy Drake, Gastonia, NC
Dear family, I met Jack through Clemson Towers and really enjoyed our acquaintance. I am really sorry to learn of his death, and will be praying for you. Jim
- Jim Hazel , Charlotte , NC
Richard and family , we are so sorry for your loss. We will be praying for all your family. After reading about your Dad you are surely blessed with many great memories and his wonderful legacy. He truly seemed like he was a wonderful man and you certainly reflect his influence in your character. May God comfort you during this time and continue to bless your family.
- Joanne and Keith Jensen, Florence, SC
Jenna, Laura, Jack and Richard - our deepest condolences for the loss of your Dad. The Long family shares in your sadness and our prayers are with you. He will be greatly missed!
- Catherine Long Howard, Charlotte, NC
Richard, we are so sorry about the loss of your dad. Sending love and prayers.
- Jerry and Becky Pickens, Cross Hill, SC
Richard, we are so sorry about the loss of your dad. Sending love and prayers.
- Jerry and Becky Pickens, Cross Hill, SC
One of the finest men I have known, I will miss Jack very much.
- Gary Barnes, Clemson, SC
My family & I were blessed to know both Mr. and Mrs. Liles. Their kindness and generosity will always be remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are offered for their loved ones, especially Richard, Susan, Zack & Rachel. Jack and Dickie are forever reunited in God's Kingdom. Mike, Amy, Cauley, Hallie, Parker & Kensleigh. Go Tigers!
- Mike Simmons family, Anderson, SC
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
