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BORN
1961
DIED
2015
Karen Giles Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Karen Giles
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Robert Fortson
January 9, 2022
Miss Cummings,
It is with great sadness I find your obituary today while searching for you. You were my English teacher in 9th grade. The passion in which you taught touched many students´ lives. I for one, look back at the two years in your classroom as one of the few joys of my school life. You will be greatly missed.
Amy Kelly
September 19, 2021
Dear Mrs. Giles,
I searched for your name to tell you what a positive impact you had on my life. You were my 9th grade English teacher and you saw in me what I could not yet see. You were such an amazing light when I was in a dark place. Thank you for reaching out and thank you for showing me how to believe in myself. You touched so many lives and I am honored to be one of them. I'm sorry it's too late to tell you in person but I know you'll get this message. With much love and gratitude.
Jeanie
July 5, 2021
Still missing you, my sweet friend.
Claire Wheeler
July 3, 2020
When Karen passed I was at our cabin in Colorado. She was so special and our sons, Griffin and Jack were and still are best friends. There is a beautiful walk on a ridge over a valley and creek. The walk ends at a beautiful waterfall. That day I made a cross of wood and robe and stuck it in a place near the waterfall that has some protection from the elements. Every year I go back to that special spot and sometimes the cross needs a little work but it remains in place, still today. I walk there often and think of Karen and pray for her family at the cross. We will always miss her and love her precious family. She would be so proud of Griffin and Emma.
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C S
July 10, 2018
She will always be one of the greatest humanitarians I have ever met. I will always love her and hold her in my memory.
I love you Miss Cummings,
CS
Melissa Page
November 11, 2017
Mrs. Giles was a phenomenal English teacher who gave me confidence to challenge the status quo. She created a safe place for challenging dialogue. She was a fantastic woman and role model.
August 16, 2016
I just found out why I could not reach you by text message. For me, you left just now. You were a mentor, coach and unconditional friend. I will miss our three hour lunches, and how we could pick up where we left off even if it was years since we could fit time into our schedules. I learned this week that I must keep in frequent contact with people who matter. Karen, you mattered to me and to my girls. We miss you.
Kathleen Darling, Gigi and Ellie
Austin Bloom
September 9, 2015
Karen, you were a brave and giving soul and I know God is taking care of you right now. You gave back so much to people and expected nothing in return. I still hold onto to your advice everyday. I will live my life the way you taught me and carry your virtues and spirit. When it is my time to go I will see you in heaven my friend.
Katie Rasmussen
August 15, 2015
Karen was a wonderful person who shared her many talents and gifts with those in need. Rest in peace, your spirit lives on in all whose lives you touched,
Terry Ford
August 14, 2015
Michael, Emma, Griffin, Terri, Sharon, George, and Karen,
I first met Karen thanks to you, Terri, at Elizabeth's service midst the beautiful tall pine trees. I listened to her speak about the death of her first born child and knew that I was in the presence of someone very special. Karen's deep grief was not the message that she shared that day. She spoke with so much love and gratitude from the depths of her heart that I found great inspiration in listening. Years later, when Karen came to visit our schools, I remember walking and talking with her ... such an amazing human being who had such a heart for children and for humanity. The world is a better place because Karen was here. She leaves her imprint on the soul of all of us whose lives she touched. I'm grateful that my path crossed Karen's path over the years. I treasure my memories of her. When it is time for me to cross into the place "where fascinating understanding prevails" Karen will be an inspiration to me ... again.
With love, Terry
Mary Ann Harris
July 30, 2015
Michael, Emma, and Griffin,
Karen and I started and ended our careers at Country Day at the same time. I was older and more experienced, but like her students, I learned so many valuable lessons from her, and I think of her, and them, often. She had a way of making you look at things differently, and she made me stop and think every time I use the word "but." She pointed out that "and" allows for many more simultaneous possibilities in life and has a much more positive force. To this day, I try to substitute "and" when my brain is supplying a "but." It was typical of Karen to switch things around to the positive, and I will always be grateful for that and many other gifts. I love how her students love her. That appreciation is well-deserved: she was able to inspire people in a way that few are able to. My heart goes out to you, her generous family who shared her with so many.
Jeanette Giles
July 25, 2015
Dear Michael Emma and Griffin, I knew Karen for such a short time compared to so many others and yet I felt an instant connection with her. Now after reading the wonderful messages from her students, fellow teachers and even your family babysitter, I am starting to understand now why I felt that way.
She was a person that saw inside people's hearts and connected on a deeper level than most people do. I so love and admire her for that and know that the message is to keep develop that same kind of higher self that we might make the world a better place.
I am still grieving for you all Michael, Emma and Griffin for I know that hole that has been left in your lives will be take a long time to heal. But I trust that with time that it will heal as Karen said so herself. And she understood grief after losing Elizabeth.
I send you all my love and want you to know that you are in my heart and prayers daily ... John sends his love too.
Ashley Normand
July 24, 2015
Ms. Giles challenged her students intellectually and taught a rigorous curriculum, but more than that, she made an emotional connection with each and every student in her classroom. I still remember conversations we had 25 years ago. I am so sorry to hear of her recent passing. Michael, Emma and Griffin, you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Patrice Rankine
July 24, 2015
What a phenomenal teacher! Mrs. Giles always pushed me to think outside the box and to do my best. I have thought of her often over the years. My prayers go out to her family. She will be missed.
Clayton F
July 24, 2015
What a great teacher. Some of my most vivid memories of high school are from her classes. I see stories on here about the Outdoor Club. Those trips started a life-long obsession for me that I've shared with my own family. My one-year-old's first hike in Big Bend last year, my wife's first multi-day camping trip on Vancouver Island - those are just a small fraction of the legacy that she's left.
When considering what to write, I returned to the advice she taught us. Look to the why: why am I here. Because she mattered a great deal, even to my wife and son who never knew her.
Emma and Griffin, I remember her talking about you all in class and on trips. You all don't need me to tell you, but your mother was a great person and teacher and will be missed immensely.
Chris Remshaw
July 24, 2015
My absolute favorite English teacher if "only" because she taught me to open my eyes to my own profundity. She had a knack for tapping into the power of students buried deep down and to overcome the obstacles and unleash their full potential. I would not be the person I am today without her influence and I will never forget the "Why sheets"! My jaw dropped to hear of her passing - a truly great teacher and a wonderful person.
Ashley Stein
July 21, 2015
Karen was a treasure. I'm so lucky to have known her. She brought out the best in us all. She will be a part of me forever. I love you Karen and miss you so much. Michael, Emma, and Griffin, I'm so sorry for your loss.
Dan Weintraub
July 17, 2015
Dear Michael, Emma and Griffin - I am so sorry to hear of Karen's passing and feel both deep sorrow for your loss and tremendous gratitude for having known such a magical person. My thoughts are with you today. -dan
Mica Tucker
July 17, 2015
Michael, Emma and Griffin - I am heartbroken for you. I know that Karen's every cell was full of love for you. She had all that love for you and somehow still opened her heart to the rest of us on a daily basis. The mentorship she gave me as a teacher, mother and philosopher is something I carry with me and look to often. What a great woman, friend and fellow traveler.
Caitlin Falls
July 16, 2015
Karen asked me to be her babysitter while I was in high school and I will always be incredibly grateful for that. I got to be a part of an amazing family every Thursday night. When she drove me home, we would sometimes spend an hour talking in her truck. We talked about many different things but I especially loved listening to her stories about her life. I can't count how many times I have thought back on her stories over the years. They have helped me make decisions in my adult life and bring a smile to my face often. I am so happy and lucky to have known her and am a better person because of her.
Christie Harris
July 16, 2015
It has taken me a few days to figure out what to say about this wonderful, free spirited and kind woman. I reflect fondly on all those hours we spent on neighborhood issues. You were so wise and I loved that you were a part of my daughters life during those formative years! May you rest in peace and your spirit soar!
Carter Tatum
July 15, 2015
She was a phenomenal and inspiring teacher and always pushed me to pursue what I was passionate about. She will be dearly missed.
CDS 10th Grade English
July 13, 2015
What a beautiful person this world has lost. Everyone has that teacher who made a difference. She was mine. She picked me out of the crowd - as she managed to do with those quiet and troubled souls - and she cared. I will always remember her driving me around the countryside while making me feel comfortable sharing my most personal experiences and thoughts. She would drive straight ahead until I said to turn right or left. And for very single shoe we found abandoned in the road, we would make up a story (funny, sweet or sad) about how it got there. At that point in my life, no adult had paid such undivided attention to me...and it made all the difference in my life thereafter. She taught me how to be a human being. With love and Godspeed.
Ruby Woolridge
July 13, 2015
Karen made an extraordinary difference in my son Cornell Woolridge's life.She started out as his English teacher and grew to be a great mentor and friend. She was a gift for the ages.
Jon and Linda Pullin
July 13, 2015
Mike, Emma and Griffin, We, the Pullins are so terribly sorry for your loss. Karen was a wonderful neighbor and friend. She was a wonderful mentor to Josh and Michael. They truly loved her. They would go visit and talk over their problems with her. She was especially helpful to Josh. She is in Heaven mentoring all the people who need to be helped by her loving kindness. Again, she will be missed. Jon and Linda Pullin, Josh Wallace and Michael Pullin.
Beth Lusero Stanley
July 13, 2015
Melba/Teri/Kelli...I was so saddened to hear the news about Karen...we all spent many an hour playing 4 square in our front yards with all the neighborhood kids..Those were special times and they are made even more special now. I have not seen karen in a few years, since Melba moved away, but I still feel your pain at losing her. Trust me, I know how it hurts to lose a loved one like that. Too young for sure, but reading all of the condolences, Karen was truly an inspiration to many, many students and friends.
Kerry Coyne
July 12, 2015
This is terribly sad news. I only knew Karen for a brief year as her student but like others have expressed she had an impact on my life that continues today. Lovely special woman, my heart breaks for her friends and family.
Sally Thurman Alband
July 12, 2015
I will never forget how much this wonderful woman taught me not only about English, but about life. She was truly a gift to us all. She touched so many lives and will be missed.
July 12, 2015
In my roughly 30 yrs of education, she has always stood in the very front ranks of teachers. I've thought of her often..... And I credit her with any skill in writing I've ever shown. What a great loss to the world. She was a truly unique and special gift to all who knew her.
--former student, Rebecca Wood-Horrall
A K
July 12, 2015
And there is the why? The why so soon and why so much suffering. Karen Giles was a pioneer and spirit like water--pure, direct, cleansing--no nonsense. Stripping elements down to their essence and seeing through. Living on through impact and actions--Godspeed Karen
Joanie Gill
July 11, 2015
I am so sorry for your loss of this incredible woman. I went to middle school with an adorable girl from Highland Park in Dallas, TX. Her family was always so loving and sweet. I havent seen her in years , but have often thought about her. Is this the girl I used to know in Dallas? The birthdate would be about right, but the picture doesn't look like what I remember her as looking. Please let me know if this is the girl I used to know. Joanie Harris Gill ([email protected]). PS I remember she had a younger sister and lived close to SMU.
Christopher Smith
July 11, 2015
Over the past 24 years, whenever I've heard her name, I can't help but think of her as a teacher because that is the role she occupied when we met. I can think of no other teacher for whom I've had more respect or admiration. Like many of her other students, I can say that she helped me immeasurably, not just in teaching me to write, but in teaching me to speak fearlessly both in life and on the page. I'm a far better man for that lesson (and so many others that she taught me as well).
We all occupy a space in the lives of others, and so Karen will always be a teacher in mine. I know that she was also a wife, mother, sister, friend, mentor, and much more. I share her loss in some measure with many other people, and offer my condolences to all.
July 11, 2015
Michael, Emma, and Griffin, I'm so saddened by your loss. Karen was an amazing mother and friend to many. My heart goes out to you with this tremendous loss of a fabulous woman.
Laura Rosenstein aka Ms. Art (CDSA)
Kelly Decker
July 11, 2015
Most of my memories of Mrs. Giles are to o personal to share. As I'm sure her family knows, there wasn't a topic she wouldn't discuss with her teachers. She was the definition of open and accepting. And yet, her words of wisdom always seemed fairly matter of fact, like there's the solution, do it. Loved her.
My absolute love of nature, the quiet, the scary, the magical outdoors is directly related to the outdoor club, of which she led. We went to Arkansas and Oklahoma. We learned to pack, we sweat and bled. We got rained out. We suffered in long bus rides. We grew.
We always knew she orchestrated all of those experiences and yet we never felt like she was in charge. Like we were her very own lord of the flies experiment l, except there would be NO piggy, ever. Everyone got and exchanged respect.
She will be missed. She was far to young. I know enough about colon cancer to hope the didn't suffer. I know enough about her to know she is happy with her baby right now, and neither are feeling any pain.
David Mitchell
July 11, 2015
She was a wonderful teacher! Inspiring, approachable and always smiling.
Hollin Dickerson Luh
July 11, 2015
I have thought about Mrs. Giles often since I was her student, but never more so than the past year when I became a mom. My condolences to her family.
Tracy Carrington
July 11, 2015
When I entered her class I hated English, and I didn't think I could write, and reading was painful. She told me "the story is in there (tapping on my forehead), we just have to find a way to get it on the page." I went on to be an English major in undergrad and later when I completed my 200 plus page thesis, and 400 plus page dissertation I remember smiling thinking the story is in there, we just have to get it on the page. She taught me to love to read, and she taught me how to write...the woman changed my life. Certain people come in your life and change you, impacting you in ways you never could have known...she has and will always be one of those people for me...she will be greatly missed!!
Tracy Carrington, PhD
(Never would have made it through grad school without her) truly an amazing woman!!
Todd Gallagher
July 11, 2015
Karen will go down in my book as a teacher and friend who profoundly changed my life. As a teacher... she gave it her all. Karen was all passion. She truly cared. She was a cheerleader for so many of us to get to the next level. She had the ability to pull the best out of us and did over and over again. She helped so many of us find our voices and helped shape the people we are today. She gave me many books when I was her student... she would write poignant messages on the inside covers relating to some shared moment or a life lesson. Over the past 20+ years those messages always bring a smile to my face when I open one of her gifts.
As a friend, Karen always gave 110%. Your life moments, were her life moments. She called it like she saw it and you always knew where you stood with her. Simply solid.
I am beyond thankful that my life crossed paths with Karen's. I am thankful for her friendship, mentoring, education and for always caring and giving it her all. Karen Giles made a huge impact on this world!
My condolences to her family and friends. Peace to you all!
Sandra Hryekewicz
July 11, 2015
Karen connected with everyone she met. She had the most genuine spirit. I was honored to know her. Love and prayers to Michael, Emma, and Griffin.
Rosalyn Bodycomb
July 11, 2015
What a fabulous human being you were Karen. Remember the time we took two bus-loads of FWCDS Outdoor Club kids to Austin to go rock climbing and they were all super bummed by the news of Kurt Cobain? Or the time we took them to Great Sand Dunes National Park & Reserve, but had to change plans because of the government shut-down; instead Bart the Mountain Man took us on a 1000ft-per-mile hike up to a lake 11,000ft above sea level! You were courageous, adventurous, thoughtful, intelligent and, lest we forget, humorous! I'll never forget the day I walked into your classroom to check in with you about our next trip; you had your class assignment written on the chalkboard Waiting for Cadeau. Well wait no longer, you were the gift, your life enriched our lives. Thank you.
July 11, 2015
I had the amazing gift of having Mrs Giles as a teacher and was so blessed to call her a friend. She was so special, caring, giving to others, and had such a fun perspective on life. I'm so so sad to hear this news.
Lauren Busch Birthisel
July 11, 2015
She led me to discover my voice. She taught me how to write. May her memory be eternal.
Hannah Maxwell
July 11, 2015
This woman touched my angst-ridden, teenage life in a profound way. She challenged me in the most beautiful & creative of ways. I haven't seen her in years, and yet she & her words still resonate greatly. I learned to take responsibility for my actions & to be more intentional with my words. She was a friend when I needed one most. Karen was as selfless & empathetic as they come. She will be missed & not forgotten.
Sending all my love & support to her family & friends.
July 11, 2015
We met at Montessori school where our children attended. My son, Nicholas, has fond memories of the regular nature expeditions that Karen provided for the students. Karen and the kids traipsed around on the extensive school grounds, Karen explaining things and letting the kids explore. When I picked up Nicholas from school on those days, he was full of excitement about the outdoor time spent with Mrs. Giles. She was SO much fun!
Heartfelt condolences to Michael, Emma and Griffin.
Jeanette Giles
July 10, 2015
thinking of you Karen... I still feel your presence and love the way our spirits connected. You will always hold a special place in my heart. I will be believing that your family will heal in time with you still guiding them from the other side.
Mary Margaret Peppeard
July 10, 2015
Karen was a gentle and kind soul and a pretty good tennis player! She will be missed.
Analisa Gabriel
July 10, 2015
Karen helped me to live my authentic self and realize my self-worth. I will be forever grateful to her. I will miss her hugs and sweet spirit. Rest in peace angel.
Sharon, Tim and Maggie Carey
July 10, 2015
Mike, Melba, Emma and Griffin: Our hearts go out to you and your families at this very sad time. We will always remember Karen for her kindness and love she showed to Maggie and our family. Her love for children was unmatched. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Sharon, Tim and Maggie Carey
Glenda and Truman Thompson
July 10, 2015
Karen was just plain part of our family at Unity of Arlington. We feel loss, but at the same time relief that though Karen did not get well, she was healed, and healed us in the process. You will not be forgotten Karen. Love and peace to all who loved her.
Jeanie Gilbert French
July 10, 2015
Mike, Emma, and Griffin,
I pray for all of you during this difficult walk. The world has most certainly lost a treasure. Karen and I began our teaching careers together and became fast friends. Together we shared many adventures; supporting in times of extreme sorrow, celebrating life, laughing as much as possible, but always moving forward with gusto! Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help as I have also walked this path.
Love to you all, Jeanie
Gary & Donna Scott
July 9, 2015
Mike, sorry for your lost. Karen was a wonderful person.
shonda scott
July 9, 2015
Mike, I'm so sorry for your loss- Karen was such a loving person. God bless
Ruth McDowell
July 9, 2015
Karen was always so full of life and fun to be around. Very fond memories from school activities but especially playing basketball. My prayers are with her family.
Allison Koester
July 9, 2015
Warm heart, full of joy and spice, ahead of her time in all the right ways.
Suzanne
July 9, 2015
Fond memories of Karen's battle cry to "Let the girls play" - words I still repeat today. My condolences to Karen's whole family.
Stephani Michalak
July 9, 2015
Karen helped me while I was in jail...IT WORKS! She was amazing...always positive and believed in us girls!!!
Robin McPhail
July 9, 2015
Karen was always thinking of others before herself. Always asking how I was doing, and how my family was and truly a great listener. I remember the first time we really met was when Griffin and Kayla were in the seventh grade and Karen and I took them to a Stars game. Such a great memory. You are gonna be missed. Praying for your precious family during this tough time.
Rosemary Lindsey
July 9, 2015
A very special lady. I am lucky to have known her.
NaOra Horton
July 9, 2015
Karen, touched my life and heart in a special way. She made a huge difference in my life and I will always be grateful. She will forever hold a special place.
July 9, 2015
Karen displayed all the virtues of the Fruits of the Spirit. Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Gentleness and Self Control. Our family will miss her terribly but know she is making a difference in heaven right now, just as she did on earth. Love you Karen.
Claire Wheeler
Sheryl Lanford
July 9, 2015
To Know her is to love her. Forever.
Renee Robinson Lewis
July 9, 2015
Such a dear friend growing up in Mansfield. She was the class clown but also our leader. Playing basketball with her are some of my fondest memories. Staying at her house before the big game was always special. Praying for you as you grieve her loss.
July 9, 2015
Karen.... a great example and teacher of how to live a life with a servants heart. A women of WISDOM.
Kelly (Riley) Hastings
July 9, 2015
I remember moving to Mansfield my junior year from Littleton, CO, and thought I had gone back in time. She was one of the first people who reached out to welcome me, complimenting my Levi jeans. And with that infectious smile, of course.
KC Bindel
July 9, 2015
Prayers for her family during this time of sorrow.
July 9, 2015
Karen made a difference in the lives of those she touched. She will be remembered with great love. Peace, comfort, and love to her family and those who loved her.
- Rebecca Rickey
Dian Pierce
July 9, 2015
Karen is a beautiful soul. We will all miss having her with us in physical form.. Thoughts and prayers are with her family..
Dian Pierce, Unity of Arlington
Monica
July 9, 2015
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love. where there is injury, pardon. Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope. Where there is darkness, light and sadness, joy.
This was who Karen was. When Karen talked to you, even in a crowded room, you were the only two there. She had a spirit and loving soul that I will hold in my heart forever. Thank you Karen for making us laugh, for showing us what real, unconditional love is and for making this crazy world a better place. You truly made a difference. God bless your family and friends in this time of grief.
Kimberly van Noort
July 8, 2015
Dear Karen - We will forever see your lighted eyes and quick smile and strive to emulate your selfless devotion to family and community. We found some great photos of our trip to Big Bend. Will listen for your spirit next time we are there and trust you are at peace. Michael, Emma, and Griffin - our thoughts are with you and may our collective energy sustain you. Kim, Dale, Hilary and Nate.
melissa corn-woodley
July 8, 2015
Happy memories linger from days gone by. So sweet and such a leader. Rest in peace.
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