Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
About
FUNERAL HOME
Oscar Boyles Obituary
Boyles
October 14, 1923-
April 17, 2011
Smiths, Alabama- Oscar P. Boyles, age 87, resident of Smiths, AL., died on Sunday, April 17, 2011 at Columbus Hospice House. Funeral services are scheduled at the Chapel of Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus on Wednesday, April 20, 2011, 3 p.m. with Reverend Andy Merritt officiating. Private interment will follow at Parkhill Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday, April 19, 2011 from 5-7 p.m.
Mr. Boyles, son of the late Thomas Roy Boyles and Sarah Ethel Johnson Boyles, was born October 14, 1923 in Forrest, MS. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, and served his country honorably during World War II. Mr. Boyles graduated from Auburn University receiving both his Bachelor's Degree and Master's Degree. He then began a career as an educator, where he devoted more than 25 years of faithful service. Mr. Boyles started his teaching career at Trinity Private School. He then taught at both Lagrange College and Cusseta High School before transferring to Baker High School where he served as Principal for several years. Mr. Boyles attended Edgewood Baptist Church and had been a member of several local civic organizations. Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Anita McGriff Boyles; a sister, Evelyn Stewart; and a brother, Woody Boyles.
Mr. Boyles is survived by one step-son, Shelby Mouring of Smiths, AL; one brother, Tommy Boyles and his wife Joan of Texarkana, AR; one granddaughter, Amber Watford and her husband Buck of Crossville, AL; one great-granddaughter, Gracie Watford; one great-grandson, Sport Watford; other relatives and friends. Condolences may be offered www.shcolumbus.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Oscar Boyles
April 14, 2012
señor osacar, thanks for all good thing we learned from u. never be forgotten, always be a lion. 1961 was the best class in bhs. que descase en la pas del SEÑOR. R I P JOSE CARDONA - PUERTO RICO BHS 1961
Sarah "Lou" (Bramlett)Nuckles ('63)
April 13, 2012
I speak of Oscar P. Boyles to this day as an example of an outstanding educator, one who was fair and who inspired honor among his students. There is no other Principal Boyles.
April 27, 2011
Mr. Boyles was a great principal at Baker High, one we respected and loved. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May God Bless You, Chanelsa Cabler 1973'Baker Lion
Rebecca Dowling Pittman
April 22, 2011
Mr. Boyles was a wonderful person. As a 1974 graduate of Baker High School, I knew from the beginning that he was dedicated to his profession and his students. The family is in my prayers and Mr. Boyles will always be in my heart. God Bless
Bob Capps
April 22, 2011
I was a student at Baker High from 1963 to 1967. Mr Boyles, or as many who loved him dearly referred to him as OP (though not to his face:)) ) was a very postive influence and means a lot to me in my life today. His gentle way of dealing with us in matters of discipline, was appreciated.
I recently went to BHS when they were destroying it, and I pointed out to my family where OP's office was etc. My condolences to all and may God bless.
Bob Capps
Douglas County School System - Transportation Dept
April 22, 2011
To the family of Mr. Boyles.
On behalf of the Douglas County School System - Transportation Dept, please accept our heartfelt condolences in the loss of Mr. Boyles. There are employees here that worked with Mr. Boyles at Lithia Springs High and remember him fondly. May your wonderful memories bring you comfort during this sad time in your lives.
April 21, 2011
A wonderful person and a great friend. I have always remembered the kindness and understanding Mr Boyles offered to me. He was not only a great educator but a true friend. He will be missed by us all. I always have great memories of Baker High School, but not one is remembered without a memory of Mr Boyes.
Wayne Brossett (BHS class of 1964)
Jack and Sally Brinkley
April 21, 2011
Please accept our deepest sympathy. "A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops." This applies also to those of us at Edgewood who knew and loved him.
The Jack and Lois Brinkley family.
Jack Brinkley, m.c. 90th - 97th Congresses
Tina Dix
April 21, 2011
I am one of the many students of Lithia Springs High School . I was sent to see Mr. Boyles one time and what a joy it was to get to know him in that one moment. He was truly to well loved to ever be forgotten.
Tina Dix (Graduate of 1982)
Mary Dorsett
April 21, 2011
I am a 1981 graduate of LSHS. I was Mr. Boyles aide in the office. I would get the students out of class and take them to Mr. Boyles for disciplinary action. He was tuff on the outside but a kind, gentle man on the inside. He will be deeply missed by many.
Jim Hall
April 21, 2011
I am also a graduate of the class of 1978 at Lithia Springs High School, and Mr. Boyles was the law. As an older man I appreciate the way he went about his business, efficient and fair. He had a tough job and did it well. War Eagle! Mr. Boyles and farewell, rest in peace.
Chuck Palmer
April 20, 2011
I am a 1978 graduate of Lithia Springs High School. I remember how hard Mr. Boyles worked at our school, and how tough he could be if you got out of line! After 25 years of teaching high school, I learned to appreciate how tough his job was and how well he performed. Farewell Mr. Boyles, farewell.
Wanda Gill
April 20, 2011
Dear Shelby,
When we lose someone we love time stands still. What moves through us is a silence, a quite sadness, for one more day, why did he leave before we were ready to say goodbye? Little by little we begin to remember that he lived and I am sure you have a life time of memories of your loving Dad.
Life is eternal, and love is immortal, death is only a horizon; a horizon is nothing save the limit of our sight.
Shelby, I am so sorry for your lost.
Take care, Wanda Gill 1961
Don & Carrie Robertson
April 20, 2011
We are so sorry to hear about Uncle Prentiss passing. Mamaw (Evelyn) was so proud of her big brother and shared many wonderful memories. We always looked forward to his visits. He was always so young at heart!! He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
April 20, 2011
Oscar P Boyles was my mother's brother. Uncle Prent was a gentle giant!! I loved being with him and listening to his stories of his Baker High School kids! He will always be in my heart! He was one of the most lovable people I knew. I could go on and on about the person he was and how much I love Uncle Prent.
God bless you Shelby and Amber as you begin your life without him. You are in my thoughts and prayers!
Donna Fellers
neice
San Antonio Texas
April 20, 2011
Mr. Boyles was such a special man in so many ways. I remember the first time I met him I was scared to death. I was in the 8th grade and had been sent to the office. I know I ended up writing the entire dictionary that year for being such a "social butterfly", but my FEAR turned to total RESPECT and Love for Mr. Boyles. He taught me so much that I have been able to use in life. I just appreciated and loved him so much. Please accept my deepest sympathy in this time of sorrow.
Janie Willis Nebl
Class 1962
Diane Harris
April 20, 2011
He will be remembered by many of the BHS Lions. I'll bet he took that big bad paddle with him to keep Ken James, Allen Caldwell and a few others in shape.
Diane Pickron Harris '67
Shari Phipps Evans BHS '66
April 20, 2011
I am so disappointed that I can not attend Mr. Boyles' service because of recent surgery. But I am so thankful that I have gotten a chance to talk with him a few times in recent years. He still loved all his Baker "kids". As he so often said, "As long as one Baker Lion lives there will always be a Baker". So, too, as long as one Baker Lion lives Mr. Oscar P. Boyles will not be forgotten. He was a wonderful influence in our lives and we are blessed to have known him.
Your family is in my prayers!
Robert Major
April 20, 2011
Shelby and family
My prayers go out to you during this hard time. Mr. Boyles will always be in so many of our hearts and memory. He was great at Baker High School during my school years and many years later Mr Boyles was at Lithia Springs High School keeping my 2 high school kids headed in the right direction. He will be missed by so many. God Bless
Maida Jones
April 20, 2011
Mr.Boyles knew his students and knew what they needed. His influence shaped many lives in many different ways. He will be remembered in just as many ways.We were all blessed with his kindness and support while at Baker and have carried that with us the rest of our lives. With sympathy to his family at home and to all of his "Baker Children". Maida Murray Jones '63
Lucille (Lucy) Hindman class '66
April 19, 2011
I am so sorry for your loss. Mr. Boyles really made a difference in the lives of so many and his memory will live on in the hearts of all of the Baker Lions. I pray that all of your special memories will bring you comfort during this difficult time. God Bless.
Jeanne Gehm
April 19, 2011
Shelby and family,
I know you have heard or read it all about your Dad, Mr. Boyles, there really is not much more anyone can write or say about him that you already do not know.
Mr. Boyles touched so many of lives which attended Baker High School and elsewhere he taught. Many of us had lost touch with him over the years, Glenn Henderson and I were lucky to reconnect in April 2009, at the Spring Fling. Even after 40 plus years, he still remember us. There are Not many principals are able to do so.
Mr. Oscar P. Boyles, was and will remain a GRRRRRReat man and the leader of the Baker High School (Baker Bums) Lions FOREVER.
We all love him and adored him. Thanks for Sharing a special person with all of us. May God Bless you and the family.
ROAR LION ROAR!
Glenn Henderson BHS 68
Jeanne Gehm BHS 69
Henriette Hood-Cain
April 19, 2011
Mr. Boyles will be missed by many and touched so many lives in a postive way.
We grieve with you.
Dr. Tesa Liggett Smotherman
April 19, 2011
Peace, love and understanding to the immediate family and the BHS clan...
1968
Phyllis Smith Denson
April 19, 2011
We are so sad about Mr. Boyles' passing and cannot say enough good things about this truly wonderful, caring and compassionate man.
Living in the same area all these years, when we would see he and Shelby, he always took time to talk to us, give us that big, warm smile and laugh and just make us feel like he was so glad to see us.
We always looked so forward to seeing he and Shelby at the quarterly Baker luncheons and they were just more special by the two of them being there! Although his health was failing, he always seemed to be more concerned with how the other person was doing.
We will forever miss him but will always remember this great man with love and gratitude. Our love and prayers go out to you Shelby and Amber and the rest of the family. Your dad and grandfather loved you all so much.
Love and prayers,
Phyllis Smith Denson (Class of'61)
Earle (Buddy) Denson (Class of '58)
Tanya Ralph
April 19, 2011
May God be with you
Caroline Pruitt Conner
April 19, 2011
When I was on the faculty of BHS, I thought Mr. Boyles a wise and caring principal who had a generosity of spirit. I remember him fondly as do so many.
Ray Ivey
April 19, 2011
Mr. Boyles was for all students regardless of their talents , abilities and accomplishments. Everyone of us benefitted from his strong fairminded approach to helping us face life. All of us have great memories of his dealings with every kind of situation. Our lives are much better because we had his influence and wisdom from which to draw. He was a blessing to each and everyone. Shelby my thoughts and prayers are with you. I cannot be with you physically now due to my health. I will be in touch and I thank you and family for sharing him with all of us for most of our lives.
April 19, 2011
Our condolences to Mr. Boyles' family. My husband and I are both Lion alumni who attended Baker while "Oscar P" was there. I worked in the office for a short time and got to know him even better. He was such a positive influence on the students there and beloved by everyone. We send our prayers and our memories his way....God grant him peace!
Cindy and Ken Mitchell '68
April 19, 2011
Seems fitting somehow that the school and Mr. Boyles have been layed to rest at the same time. Mr. Boyles "was" Baker High School. With out him it would have been just brick and mortar. he touched countless lives. God bless you Oscar P and God bless your family.
~Marshall Ford class of 1974
Patricia & Thomas Sorsby
April 19, 2011
He was "Uncle Prent" to me and so very special, and loved so much by all our family. You couldn't ask for a nicer more fun person to be with - when we visited he always took us some place of interest. He was a very wise man, I remember once he made this statement at an appropriate time, "it's not a problem, unless you make it a problem". It won't be the same each year when we visit our family in Alabama not to spend some time with Uncle Prent. Missing you already. Pat
Jacqueline Tillman Harty
April 19, 2011
To Mr. Boyles' family we send our deepest sympathy and share in your your loss.
With Mr. Boyles' Baker High famiy, we join in remembrances and honor to a person that to every last one of us, touched who we were, and who we became.
Mr. Boyles' legacy lives in the hearts and souls of thousands of Baker High students. What a rich and fulfilling life he lived, and prompted us to live this way as well.
With memories and prayers,
Evie BHS '60, Jackie BHS '62, Kathie BHS '64, Jessie BHS '67, Bobby BHS '72, Scotty [RIP] BHS '75 TILLMAN
KAREN KING
April 19, 2011
to the family, i am so sorry to hear about mr Boyles, he was a sweetheart, his jokes and visits to our pharmacy was a good time to get to know him, he loved family and going, when he found out I was from louisiana, he liked me right off the bat, we will miss him but his health was failing and we were so scared of him driving. HE WILL BE MISSED BY SO MANY PEOPLE,
Patricia Principe
April 19, 2011
Shelby,
I'm sorry for your loss of a very special man.
Mr Boyles good works will follow him.
May God rest his soul.
Pat Crowe Principe
jose cardona
April 19, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Ismael (Ish) Nazario
April 19, 2011
When Sandye and I married in August 25, 2001, Mr. Boyles attended our wedding and I remember him telling Sandye, that if I ever got out of hand to let him know and he would straightened him out. I believe, no, I know he would have done just that. Prior to our luncheon in March 2011, I decided to start writing bio's and read them at the luncheon during the agenda. I am so glad that we did his first. I really got to know and admire the man much better especially since we were blood brothers, "Paratroopers". A little later we went "High Tech" and did a "You Tube" with him. What an honor and privilege for me. Mr. Boyles will forever be with us in spirit. Now he is having his own reunion in heaven with those Baker Lions that have departed before us. May God Have Mercy On His Soul.
Bonna Sneed, Class of 77
April 19, 2011
It saddens me greatly that Baker High School and Mr. Boyles is no longer with us. But, neither will be forgotten and both will always be remembered with great respect and a smile. My deepest sympathies to the family. He will be truly missed by everyone that knew him, especially us Baker Bums!
Peggy Moltzan
April 19, 2011
Mr.Boyles , I will miss you and will always remember you fondly..you were one of the reasons going to Baker was always like being with family...Then and Now...
Peggy Jodan Moltzan '75
Joan Frazier
April 19, 2011
My thoughts are with his family at this time. Mr. Boyles always seemed to be a just person and a character in his own right. I have only fond memories of him.
Joan (Childrey) Frazier
BHS Class '63
Parilee Dukes -Colbert
April 19, 2011
Remembering Mr. Boyles. Class of "73"
April 19, 2011
Even though it has been many years since I was in school at Baker,memories of Mr. Boyles as being a just and involved principal have remainined with me.He had the respect of all students which for a prnicipal of any school is quite an accomplishment. From what I hear he lived a full and giving life leaving this world a much better place than when he arrived.
Linda Ford Omundsen-Class of '65
Katherine Bahr
April 19, 2011
I don't think there ever was a principal as beloved by so many students as Oscar P. Boyles. He was funny, wise, loving and generous--one of a kind!
Deepest sympathies. Kathy (Omelanuk) Bahr '66
Bob Herrington
April 19, 2011
When I think of Baker and fond memories my thoughts always have Mr Boyles somewhere
in there.
Frances Duncan
April 19, 2011
In memory of Mr. Oscar Boyles
April 19, 2011
My deepest sympathies to his family. Mr. Boyles was a great principle to so many and a wonderful man.
Charlotte Scarborough Wakefield
BHS1970
April 19, 2011
I was blessed to know "Oscar P." for the two years that I attended Baker HS, and ever after, he was my standard for behavior and leadership. So very many times I would ask myself "What would Mr. Boyles do?"
We all lost a great educator and friend this week, and my sympathy and prayers are for his family, students, and friends, who will miss him.
Mike Omelanuk (Baker '64, Mundelein, IL)
Susan Graves Brown '73
April 19, 2011
Dear Oscar P..he led our school through a particularly stormy time and did so with such valor. We knew when the storm was over we would be unscathed. That was the type of leader he was. May God continue to bless his family as they were blessed to have him in their lives...as we the "Baker High School" family were also. Our "Lion's Pride" stands strong today because of you. May you Rest in Peace with the knowledge of love and respect.
Bill Land
April 19, 2011
God called home a great man who touched so many young lives. May God grant you the peace you need at this time...
Sandye Johnson Nazario
April 19, 2011
Mr. Boyles was a truly great and wonderful person who will be missed by thousands. He touched so many lives in a very positive way.
Shelby, Tommy and Joan: My very deepest sympathies for your loss.
Anne Bridges Bennett
April 19, 2011
Mr. Boyles was a great influence on many people, not just Baker students. The Baker Lion Pride have lost a great leader and friend. He will always be remembered with great love and respect!
My prayers are with the family. Love to all of you.
Dock Richardson
April 19, 2011
I am sorry for your loss and my prayers are with you and your family. Mr. Boyles was a great principal and will be missed by many "Baker Lions".
Walt Lehner
April 19, 2011
Deepest symathy to the family. Our prayers are with you. Mr. Boyles was beloved to all his students and will be missed. He was a great influence on our lives. God bless him!
Walt Lehner BHS '68
Ron Shaw
April 19, 2011
Mr Boyles was a man that you looked forward to seeing and did not want to see for his "three licks or three days." Baker would not have been the same without him. He is and will be missed by many.
Sherry Miller
April 19, 2011
I will always remember the full face smile of Mr. Boyles sitting in the middle of '62 classmates at our 40th reunion and when I looked out into the
audience, as I'd done so many times in so many years of twirling for Baker HIgh School at Victory Stadium, his face and his smile seemed to engulf the entire room and said it all.
God Bless our 'Mr. Boyles' and look out...he may just still be able to give a spiritual paddling somewhere in our earthly life's way....we loved you so, we loved you being with us at the end.....Sherry Miller '62
Mary Stafford
April 19, 2011
Shelby, he talked about how blessed he was to have you for a son, he loved you so much. He served his country, students, and community well. It was a privilege to get to know him several years ago, especially after being one of his students at Baker. Oscar P was a true WWII hero, his passing will leave a huge hole in your family and Columbus GA.
Micki Sewell
April 19, 2011
Amber and Poppa Shelby and to the rest of the family.....my prayers and love go to you all of you. I love you all!
Ronald (Bergeron) Ledet
April 19, 2011
As a former Baker High School student, I would like to express my deepest condolences. Oscar will remain in the memeories of thousands of Baker students forever.
Dee Dertien
April 19, 2011
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Boyles death. He was a great man who was dedicated to the students at Baker. He will always be in our hearts. I am sorry for your loss. Dee Henson Dertien
Brenda/Parker Underwood
April 19, 2011
Mr. Boyles will live on in the hearts and minds of so many students. He was always kind and made one feel important just by giving one a smile as he passed one in the hall. I grew up to be a nurse and had the pleasure of taking care of him once at the Medical Center. He had a great purpose in life and he achieved it...now he has his crown and walks in Paridise. class of 69
April 19, 2011
Shelby
Words cannot express how much you, your mom and dad have meant to me over the years. I looked so forward to their visits at the mall and all the jokes he shared with me. He was a great person and I will miss him. My thoughts and prayers are always with you.
Martha McGowan
Foster Watkins
April 19, 2011
Mr. Boyles and I worked together for a few years at Baker High School. I left to work on my doctoral degree with the hope of coming back and eventukally being principal of BHS forever. I never made it back to be disappointed in not becoming principal, as the position was made for Mr. Boyles. He served in that role in a demanding but caring way that is reflected by the continuing high regard for him at the quarterly Lions Lunchions. He made a meaningful difference in the lives of so many.
With deep apprectiation for one who seerved so well:
J. Foster Watkins
BHS '55
Paula Gross-Lamm '74
April 19, 2011
I feel as though I have lost someone in my own family. Mr. Boyles was a part the of the Baker High School family and will be dearly missed. I had the honor to see him once again at our 35th Class Reunion and I will cherish that moment forever. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time. I pray the God will give you peace knowing he is now in a better place. Rest In Peace Mr. B.
Richard Simmons
April 18, 2011
Oscar was a great man, who did a great job,at the greatest school,with the greatest faculty and students, at the greatest of times ever.He will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege to know him.
Nansi Rogers Wildenberg
April 18, 2011
I am so sorry for you loss, Mr. Boyles was a wonderful man, who was respected & loved by so many people. He was the "King" of us Lions, and we will miss him greatly. I pray that you will find comfort & peace in your memories. May God Bless you & help you through this difficult time.
RIP Mr. B
Class of '69
Gwen Orr Jolly
April 18, 2011
As a former Baker High School student, I would like to express my condolences. May God comfort all of his loved ones during this time. We will surely miss him.
Arlene Bridges
April 18, 2011
Dear Amber,
I am sending you my heartfelt condolences in the passing of your dear grandfather. I know he was well loved and special in your life. May you focus on your memories of him. While his earthly family is mourning his passing, his heavenly family is celebrating. Love to you, Arlene
Wendy Mock
April 18, 2011
My heart and prayers are with the family. Trust in the Lord to give you strength during this difficult time. Please know that Mr. Boyles touched the lives of many in a very positive way. He had the respect and love of many Lions---Rest in Peace Mr. Boyles.
Curly '62 Harman
April 18, 2011
Oscar has always been in my heart since my High School days at Baker. This man made a difference in my life by making me a much better person. I remember paying him a visit for disciplinary reasons. He said...you think you're pretty smart don't you. I said yes sir. He said I also think you're pretty smart in fact one of the smartest students I know. He then said just remember don't ever think you know it all. You need to go through life learning as much as you can. There is never too much to learn. If you ever think you know it all I've failed. From that day forward I made it a point of trying to learn something new each day...every day and I owe that attitude to Oscar. He will always be remembered. I thank the family for allowing Oscar to share his wisdom with so many of his students at BHS.
Rose Branam
April 18, 2011
Mr. Boyles, you were the best Principal I ever had! May you rest in peace and tranquility in God's arms. Because of you, Baker High School will forever thrive and roar! Thank you, Rose Strickland Branam
Roy Cook
April 18, 2011
Mr. Boyles had a phenominal memory. He could tell stories from his days as Principal of Baker High and not leave out a detail. Mr. B was loved by ALL his students even when he dished out punishment. He will be missed by everyone that knew him, especially his former students.
Marion richard
April 18, 2011
Shelby and family
I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Boyles.He was a great principal. And he meant so much to us. Thank you for sharing him with all of the Baker High students.GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN. We will miss him so much.
marion butts richard
BHS 1975
Brenda Hamilton Sponaugle
April 18, 2011
We will all miss Mr. Boyles, he has touched so many people in his life and his loss will be felt by all. We wanted to let you know that you have our deepest sympathy and our hearts are truly saddened. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Showing 1 - 72 of 72 results
Make a Donation
in Oscar Boyles's name
Memorial Events
for Oscar Boyles
How to support Oscar's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Oscar Boyles's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
