Celebrating the life of
Ruth P. "Dickie" Liles
March 22, 1932 - January 09, 2010
Ruth P. "Dickie" Liles
Ruth P. "Dickie" Liles, 77, died Saturday, January 9, 2010 at St. Joseph's Hospital in Savannah, Georgia after a brief illness.
Mrs. Liles was born in Walterboro, South Carolina on March 22, 1932 the daughter of the late Hubert and Eloise Leybourne Padgett. She was raised in Brunswick, Georgia and was a graduate of Glynn Academy where she excelled in basketball. Shortly after graduating she married Jack S. Liles. She and Mr. Liles traveled extensively during his career, residing in Virginia Beach, Virginia from 1963 – 1990 where Mr. Liles ultimately retired as President of Tidewater Construction Corporation. They retired to The Landings in Savannah, Georgia in 1990 where Dickie enjoyed playing golf and acquiring new friends. Her generous smile and vigor of life could light up a room. She always celebrated life to the fullest and that enthusiasm was contagious to anyone in her presence. It was always a pleasure to be in her company. Dickie could be described as a strong woman, not only physically, but mentally and emotionally as well. She used this strength for the betterment of others, being civically involved in many projects and activities during her life. While living in Savannah she was affiliated with the Open Arms Group and Meals on Wheels as well as many other philanthropic groups. She enjoyed working in her beautiful yard and watching the birds that came to her feeder. Her greatest attribute was the love and devotion that she bestowed upon her family. Words cannot describe the love that she unselfishly gave to her family, always keeping their interest in mind before herself.
Mrs. Liles is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Jack S. Liles, Sr.; children, Jenna Byrne and husband William of Willits, California, Jack S. Liles, Jr. and wife Deborah of Norfolk, Virginia, Richard Liles and wife Susan of Florence, South Carolina and Laura Liles Marshall of Savannah, Georgia; grandchildren, Dove Byrne, Colin Byrne, Jason Liles, Megan Liles, Zachary Liles, Rachel Liles, Emma Marshall, Claudia Marshall and Julia Marshall; great-grandchild, Ryko Byrne; brothers-in-law, John Richardson Liles of Virginia Beach, Virginia and William Hudson of West River, Maryland; sisters-in-law, Catherine Liles Long of Greensboro, North Carolina, Sarah Liles Suiter of Charlotte, North Carolina and Jane Perry Liles of Concord, North Carolina and a host of extended family, nieces, nephews and dear friends.
A memorial service will be held Friday, January 15, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at Isle of Hope United Methodist Church, 412 Parkersburg Road, Savannah, Georgia 31406. A reception will immediately follow at The Oakridge Club at The Landings.
In lieu of flowers, it is requested that memorial contributions be made to the Humane Society, 7215 Sallie Mood Drive, Savannah, Georgia 31406.
Dear Liles Family, I write to you on behalf of Sylvia and MarthaJo Leybourne, cousins to Dickie. They are sorry to hear of your loss. Over the years they have lost touch with the 'girls,' but have fond memories. Syliva, my mother, and I live here in Chesapeake. Small world. We would welcome a visit should you want. Just let me know when a time is appropriate. With sympathy, Evelyn
- Evelyn Carnes Kelly, Chesapeke, VA
We will all miss Dickie. She was a special person and had a fire and energy that affected change in everything and everyone she met. I thank her family for all they have given to the girls in there time, love and affection. I will miss her as you all will Corby
- Corby Marshall, Savannah, GA
Jack, We saw Dickie's obituary in the Virginian Pilot. We are so sorry to hear of her death. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
- John and Deidre Dickens, Suffolk, VA
Laura and Family, We are so sorry for the loss of your sweet Dickie. She was always so wonderful to me and treated Chloe as if she was one of her own. She will be greatly missed but never forgotten. Our prayers are with your family. Much Love, Biza, Chad, Blake and Chloe
- Biza Mabry, Savannah, GA
We would like to give our condolences to Laura Marshall, her daughters and her family. Our thoughts are with you on this difficult moment.
- Walter & ILeana Rios, Jacksonville, FL
Dear Jack Jr. & family, I am so sorry to hear of your Mom's passing. She was one the greatest ' Moms' that I had ever meet & I'm so happy I had the privilege of knowing her. I have wonderful memories dating back to the early '70s--your Mom was always there for me..great Lady. My thoughts & prayers are with you & your family. Love Michelle
- Michelle Wright McHugh, Va. Beach, VA
Very fond memories of stress-free rounds of golf with Dickie and the gals.
- Michael Toner, Homer, AK
JACK, WE WERE SO SADDEND THIS AFTERNOON WHEN WE HEARD FROM CRENIE REED THAT DICKIE PASED. i COULD NOT BELIEVE IT, AS WE JUST RECEIVED YOUR CHRISTMAS CARD SIGNED BY HER WONDERFUL HANDWRITING. BEFORE CHRISTMAS WE HEARD OF BETTY LILES PASSING TOO. WE ARE KEEPING YOU AND YOUR FAMILY IN OUR PRAYERS. adli and carolyn
- ADLI AND CAROLYN ALLISS, WILLIAMSBURG,, VA
What a Lady What a Legacy Thank you Richard for allowing me to know how special your Mother will always be. Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family.
- Matt, Julie, Lesley & Trey Ellison, Easley, SC
Richard and family, Davis and I are so sorry to hear about your mother's passing, and how it hurts you and us. We will pray for peace for you and your family. Please let us know if you can help you in any way. God Bless All.
- Johnny Guerriero, Florence, SC
Dear Liles Family, I have fond memories of Mrs. Liles when Laura and I were in Junior High. The many days and nights spent at the house... Mrs. Liles taxiing us around in the Buick to the mall, the skating rink, the beach and our road trip to St. Simons Island. What great childhood memories. My thoughts and prayers are with you all in this difficult time.
- Joyce Jones Voorhees, Williamsburg, VA
Dear Mr Liles and Family It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Mrs Liles. What special memories I have of Mrs Liles and that WONDERFUL smile she always wore. My condolences to you and your family, Steve
- Steve Poff, Virginia Beach, VA
Dear Family, Sending lots of love and deepest sympathies, for i have the fondest memories of Laura's mom; as a welcoming, fun, sweet, spirited, caring person - not alot like her here on earth. Love, Lisa Spilka Cardona
- Lisa Spilka Cardona, Virginia Beach, VA
Pam and I were so sorry to hear about your Mom. You and Susan are in our prayers. If we can help in any way please let us know. Mike and Pam Richey
- Michael & Pam Richey, Charlotte, NC
To the Liles Family - I am so blessed to have known your matriarch. She was so warm and kind with a smile that never faded. My only hope is that you can find some comfort in your memories. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
- Kelly Murphy, Savannah, GA
Dear Jack and Family, We are saddened to learn of the loss of Dickie. She was a bright light and always made us smile. She will be missed by so many as she touched each of us with her spark. Our deepest condolences go out to you and your family. Aimee & Rich Toner
- aimee toner, sandy, UT
Dear Uncle Jack, Jenna, Jackie, Richard and Laura, We were so sadden to hear of the passing of Aunt Dickie. Our deepest condolences to your entire family. As you know, we lost our mother two years ago under similar circumstances. May God be with you during this very difficult time. In reading Dickie’s memorial, I am reminded of all the Padgett sisters, their uncanny resemblance, strong personalities and ability to make you laugh! May you find some comfort in knowing Dickie was received to the open arms of her sisters, Jackie, Pat and Allie. May they rest in eternal peace, The Hudson Family
- Debbie Hudson Hug, Arnold, MD
Dear Liles Family, We are so very sorry about Mrs. Liles. She was always such a great mother to all of Laura's friends and we have many memories of high school, college and beyond with her. Much love to you all in this hard time.
- Tara Martin McKeever, Virginia Beach, VA
Richard and Susan, Jim and I just wanted to let you know, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. God bless and keep you.
- Jim & Traci Reed, Florence, SC
Dear Mr Jack Liles Sr.and Family, Stephanie and I were very saddened to read about Mrs Liles passing. We always remember the good times we had with you and Dickie with the Musselman's. Mr Liles, I especially remember our golf games together when we had the Saturday morning group. You are in our prayers. Tim Saunders
- Tim Saunders, Virginia Beach, VA
I love my grandma, Her smile, The way she would say 'Dovey', Playing catch with the hard-ball, Summers at the beach, The family keystone, I love my grandma, I miss her, She will be remembered every day, My son will know his great grandma, Her memory will be passed on, Grandma, thank you for this wonderful family!
- Dove Byrne, McKinleyville, CA
Dear Liles family and LAURA, .....thoughts are with you upon the loss of your beloved mother..it was great being neighbors with your family in Larkspur..wonderful memories !!!..I remember how she and Anne Rowe always had such a good time together.. .Laura,.... Amy just showed me pics of you and your daughters on facebook....occasionally when we look at old pics there are always LOTS of you and Lisa....especially on the first day of school when I'm out there taking pics of all the kids on the court waiting for the first bus of the school year...Wardles too...remember ??? . take care...... Sincerely, Blanche and Micky Spilka
- blanche and Licky spilka, va beach, VA
Dear Granma, I love you and miss you. I love the way you love me too. with love, julia
- Julia Marshall, Savannah, GA
grandma, i miss you so much. i wish i couldve talked to you one more time. im glad i went go visit you in the hopital when i did. you have brought so much happiness into my life. i dont know what i would have done without you. you were the sweetest lady in the world...wihtout a doubt. i know your an angel. hopefully ill see you again someday and you can tell me more of your susie pop stories. you will not be forgotten. with all of my love, emma
- emma marshall, savannah, GA
Dear Mr. Liles and Family, I cannot believe Dickie is gone. I can still hear her call my mom Belle, and the two of them laughing and talking for hours. Many an afternoon I would walk into the house on Edwin Drive and they would be sitting at the kitchen table just chatting away wearing their horn-rimmed glasses quite stylish back then. I loved their laughter and friendship. And I'll never forget what a beautiful and immaculate house Dickie kept. I remember her painting and hanging wallpaper, with Rocky's help of course! Dickie was a wonderful role model for me and I am grateful for having known her. Love to you all during this most painful time.
- Pella Musselman, Chesapeake, VA
Dear Jack, Jenna, Jackie, Richard, and Ms. Laura : I just want to send my love to all of you. I cannot tell you how sad I am to hear the news.I am always telling my wife of the wonderful times I spent at the Liles' house growing up as a kid.Dickie was, to me,the warmest person I ever knew. She always had a beautiful smile for all,and I can still feel her motherly hugs and 'high fives'!We all have been blessed to be in her company.Just know in your hearts, that she is with you,always. My love, Tim
- Mr.and Mrs. Tim Neal, Pinehurst, NC
Mom Liles, The best mother in law I could have ever asked for. I miss you already and know that I will think of you each and every day as you were so important in our lives. I'll never forget your smile, bright beautiful eyes and big, meaningful hugs. Everything you did was with passion and love. I am so blessed to have had you in my life these past 25 years. No matter what we did you always found joy and made us laugh. I remember your special 'whistle' that you did to round us up in the store when you were ready to go. You woke up with a smile and laughter and went to bed at night the same way. You truly loved life and lived yours to the fullest. We love you and Miss you greatly. xoxoxoxoxoxoxo
- Susan Liles, Florence, SC
Mr. Liles and family please know that we are praying for you and your family. We are friends of Richard and Susan's and their fine children. We recently had 2 losses which were devastating to us so we understand your sorrow only to well. it is our prayer that God will comfort and give us all strength as we go through this time of loss and acceptance. Joanne, Keith, Ethan, Trevor, and Bryce Jensen
- Joanne Jensen, Florence, SC
Dear Liles Family, I write to you on behalf of Sylvia and MarthaJo Leybourne, cousins to Dickie. They are sorry to hear of your loss. Over the years they have lost touch with the 'girls,' but have fond memories. Syliva, my mother, and I live here in Chesapeake. Small world. We would welcome a visit should you want. Just let me know when a time is appropriate. With sympathy, Evelyn
- Evelyn Carnes Kelly, Chesapeke, VA
We will all miss Dickie. She was a special person and had a fire and energy that affected change in everything and everyone she met. I thank her family for all they have given to the girls in there time, love and affection. I will miss her as you all will Corby
- Corby Marshall, Savannah, GA
Jack, We saw Dickie's obituary in the Virginian Pilot. We are so sorry to hear of her death. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
- John and Deidre Dickens, Suffolk, VA
Laura and Family, We are so sorry for the loss of your sweet Dickie. She was always so wonderful to me and treated Chloe as if she was one of her own. She will be greatly missed but never forgotten. Our prayers are with your family. Much Love, Biza, Chad, Blake and Chloe
- Biza Mabry, Savannah, GA
We would like to give our condolences to Laura Marshall, her daughters and her family. Our thoughts are with you on this difficult moment.
- Walter & ILeana Rios, Jacksonville, FL
Dear Jack Jr. & family, I am so sorry to hear of your Mom's passing. She was one the greatest ' Moms' that I had ever meet & I'm so happy I had the privilege of knowing her. I have wonderful memories dating back to the early '70s--your Mom was always there for me..great Lady. My thoughts & prayers are with you & your family. Love Michelle
- Michelle Wright McHugh, Va. Beach, VA
Very fond memories of stress-free rounds of golf with Dickie and the gals.
- Michael Toner, Homer, AK
JACK, WE WERE SO SADDEND THIS AFTERNOON WHEN WE HEARD FROM CRENIE REED THAT DICKIE PASED. i COULD NOT BELIEVE IT, AS WE JUST RECEIVED YOUR CHRISTMAS CARD SIGNED BY HER WONDERFUL HANDWRITING. BEFORE CHRISTMAS WE HEARD OF BETTY LILES PASSING TOO. WE ARE KEEPING YOU AND YOUR FAMILY IN OUR PRAYERS. adli and carolyn
- ADLI AND CAROLYN ALLISS, WILLIAMSBURG,, VA
What a Lady What a Legacy Thank you Richard for allowing me to know how special your Mother will always be. Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family.
- Matt, Julie, Lesley & Trey Ellison, Easley, SC
Richard and family, Davis and I are so sorry to hear about your mother's passing, and how it hurts you and us. We will pray for peace for you and your family. Please let us know if you can help you in any way. God Bless All.
- Johnny Guerriero, Florence, SC
Dear Liles Family, I have fond memories of Mrs. Liles when Laura and I were in Junior High. The many days and nights spent at the house... Mrs. Liles taxiing us around in the Buick to the mall, the skating rink, the beach and our road trip to St. Simons Island. What great childhood memories. My thoughts and prayers are with you all in this difficult time.
- Joyce Jones Voorhees, Williamsburg, VA
Dear Mr Liles and Family It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Mrs Liles. What special memories I have of Mrs Liles and that WONDERFUL smile she always wore. My condolences to you and your family, Steve
- Steve Poff, Virginia Beach, VA
Dear Family, Sending lots of love and deepest sympathies, for i have the fondest memories of Laura's mom; as a welcoming, fun, sweet, spirited, caring person - not alot like her here on earth. Love, Lisa Spilka Cardona
- Lisa Spilka Cardona, Virginia Beach, VA
Pam and I were so sorry to hear about your Mom. You and Susan are in our prayers. If we can help in any way please let us know. Mike and Pam Richey
- Michael & Pam Richey, Charlotte, NC
To the Liles Family - I am so blessed to have known your matriarch. She was so warm and kind with a smile that never faded. My only hope is that you can find some comfort in your memories. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
- Kelly Murphy, Savannah, GA
Dear Jack and Family, We are saddened to learn of the loss of Dickie. She was a bright light and always made us smile. She will be missed by so many as she touched each of us with her spark. Our deepest condolences go out to you and your family. Aimee & Rich Toner
- aimee toner, sandy, UT
Dear Uncle Jack, Jenna, Jackie, Richard and Laura, We were so sadden to hear of the passing of Aunt Dickie. Our deepest condolences to your entire family. As you know, we lost our mother two years ago under similar circumstances. May God be with you during this very difficult time. In reading Dickie’s memorial, I am reminded of all the Padgett sisters, their uncanny resemblance, strong personalities and ability to make you laugh! May you find some comfort in knowing Dickie was received to the open arms of her sisters, Jackie, Pat and Allie. May they rest in eternal peace, The Hudson Family
- Debbie Hudson Hug, Arnold, MD
Dear Liles Family, We are so very sorry about Mrs. Liles. She was always such a great mother to all of Laura's friends and we have many memories of high school, college and beyond with her. Much love to you all in this hard time.
- Tara Martin McKeever, Virginia Beach, VA
Richard and Susan, Jim and I just wanted to let you know, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. God bless and keep you.
- Jim & Traci Reed, Florence, SC
Dear Mr Jack Liles Sr.and Family, Stephanie and I were very saddened to read about Mrs Liles passing. We always remember the good times we had with you and Dickie with the Musselman's. Mr Liles, I especially remember our golf games together when we had the Saturday morning group. You are in our prayers. Tim Saunders
- Tim Saunders, Virginia Beach, VA
I love my grandma, Her smile, The way she would say 'Dovey', Playing catch with the hard-ball, Summers at the beach, The family keystone, I love my grandma, I miss her, She will be remembered every day, My son will know his great grandma, Her memory will be passed on, Grandma, thank you for this wonderful family!
- Dove Byrne, McKinleyville, CA
Dear Liles family and LAURA, .....thoughts are with you upon the loss of your beloved mother..it was great being neighbors with your family in Larkspur..wonderful memories !!!..I remember how she and Anne Rowe always had such a good time together.. .Laura,.... Amy just showed me pics of you and your daughters on facebook....occasionally when we look at old pics there are always LOTS of you and Lisa....especially on the first day of school when I'm out there taking pics of all the kids on the court waiting for the first bus of the school year...Wardles too...remember ??? . take care...... Sincerely, Blanche and Micky Spilka
- blanche and Licky spilka, va beach, VA
Dear Granma, I love you and miss you. I love the way you love me too. with love, julia
- Julia Marshall, Savannah, GA
grandma, i miss you so much. i wish i couldve talked to you one more time. im glad i went go visit you in the hopital when i did. you have brought so much happiness into my life. i dont know what i would have done without you. you were the sweetest lady in the world...wihtout a doubt. i know your an angel. hopefully ill see you again someday and you can tell me more of your susie pop stories. you will not be forgotten. with all of my love, emma
- emma marshall, savannah, GA
Dear Mr. Liles and Family, I cannot believe Dickie is gone. I can still hear her call my mom Belle, and the two of them laughing and talking for hours. Many an afternoon I would walk into the house on Edwin Drive and they would be sitting at the kitchen table just chatting away wearing their horn-rimmed glasses quite stylish back then. I loved their laughter and friendship. And I'll never forget what a beautiful and immaculate house Dickie kept. I remember her painting and hanging wallpaper, with Rocky's help of course! Dickie was a wonderful role model for me and I am grateful for having known her. Love to you all during this most painful time.
- Pella Musselman, Chesapeake, VA
Dear Jack, Jenna, Jackie, Richard, and Ms. Laura : I just want to send my love to all of you. I cannot tell you how sad I am to hear the news.I am always telling my wife of the wonderful times I spent at the Liles' house growing up as a kid.Dickie was, to me,the warmest person I ever knew. She always had a beautiful smile for all,and I can still feel her motherly hugs and 'high fives'!We all have been blessed to be in her company.Just know in your hearts, that she is with you,always. My love, Tim
- Mr.and Mrs. Tim Neal, Pinehurst, NC
Mom Liles, The best mother in law I could have ever asked for. I miss you already and know that I will think of you each and every day as you were so important in our lives. I'll never forget your smile, bright beautiful eyes and big, meaningful hugs. Everything you did was with passion and love. I am so blessed to have had you in my life these past 25 years. No matter what we did you always found joy and made us laugh. I remember your special 'whistle' that you did to round us up in the store when you were ready to go. You woke up with a smile and laughter and went to bed at night the same way. You truly loved life and lived yours to the fullest. We love you and Miss you greatly. xoxoxoxoxoxoxo
- Susan Liles, Florence, SC
Mr. Liles and family please know that we are praying for you and your family. We are friends of Richard and Susan's and their fine children. We recently had 2 losses which were devastating to us so we understand your sorrow only to well. it is our prayer that God will comfort and give us all strength as we go through this time of loss and acceptance. Joanne, Keith, Ethan, Trevor, and Bryce Jensen
- Joanne Jensen, Florence, SC
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
