Leon Leonard Gyles

Leon Leonard Gyles passed away on August 31, 2023, at the age of 76 in Laurinburg, North Carolina. He was born on September 20, 1946, in Jackson, Michigan to his late mother, Marie Cara Mae Ackerman Gyles, and his father, Leonard Gyles.

Leon is survived by his beloved wife, Renee, and leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. He is also survived by his father, Leonard, his sons Teddy, Ryan, and Chase, step-sons Davis and Carl, step-daughters Patricia and Sara, brother Lamont, sisters Marilyn and Marlene, nephew Jeff and his wife Mary, as well as his grandchildren Patricia, Anniston, James, Coleman, Lenel, Chantelle, and Monique, and four great-grandchildren.

Leon was a highly educated individual, having earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Aviation Engineering, Production, and Testing of Aircraft from Western Michigan University as well as a Master of System Management degree from the University of Southern California and a Master of Library and Information Science degree from the University of South Carolina.

Leon proudly served in the United States Navy, achieving the rank of LCDR (Lieutenant Commander). He was a dedicated and respected member of the military community. During his military service, Leon earned accolades such as the Navy Commendation Medal with a star, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy Achievement Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, and Navy Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon. He was a pilot with over 100 aircraft landings and went on to serve as the head of maintenance of fighter jets.

After his 20-year military career, he worked at the University of South Carolina in Columbia, SC and Gulfstream Aerospace in Savannah, GA. Leon then served as the Director of Laurinburg Scotland County Memorial Library for over a decade.

Outside of his professional life, Leon had a wide range of hobbies and interests. He enjoyed traveling, camping, hiking, fly fishing and making his own flies, collecting antiques, reading, and even building rockets. Leon also actively engaged in community service, often appearing as a radio guest and serving as a Boy Scout troop leader.

Leon Leonard Gyles will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His dedication to his country, achievements in his career, and passion for his hobbies will forever be remembered. May he rest in peace, and may his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who mourn his loss.

Private family services will be held.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers that donations be made in Leon's memory to the Scotland County Memorial Library in Laurinburg, NC or Boy Scout Troop 223 in Southern Pines, NC.

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