Floyd Stiles

Phoenix - Floyd "Buzz" Stiles, Jr., age 86, passed away on June 8, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona. A devoted aviator and accomplished pilot, Buzz lived a life defined by his passion for flight and his dedication to service.

Born on December 19, 1938, in Beresford, South Dakota, Buzz spent his formative years in the heart of the Midwest. He attended high school in both Custer and Winner, South Dakota, before pursuing higher education at South Dakota State University in Brookings. There he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics in 1963. His love for aviation began early-sparked by an aviation movie he saw in third grade-and it would shape the course of his life.

During summer breaks from college, Buzz earned his pilot's license and did crop dusting in North Dakota and Mississippi. In a charming nod to his nickname and future plans, he occasionally "buzzed" the home of his future wife.

Following graduation, Buzz entered Navy Pilot training in Pensacola, Florida. He went on to serve with distinction as a naval aviator during the Vietnam War. Stationed out of Lemoore, California, he flew combat missions from the decks of the USS Enterprise and USS Hancock. Later based in Alameda, California, he served aboard the USS Independence during a Mediterranean deployment His five years of military service reflected both courage and commitment.

After completing his time in the Navy, Buzz transitioned seamlessly into a civilian aviation career that spanned more than three decades. He flew for Northwest Airlines, ultimately rising to captain on international flights aboard Boeing 747-400s. His career took him across the globe and allowed him to continue doing what he loved most-flying.

Besides flying, Buzz enjoyed his family life that included worldwide traveling. He also served as an usher at Paradise Valley United Methodist Church many years. Additionally, Buzz believed in a healthy lifestyle: he made vitamin loaded berry flavored smoothies for his family every morning and he swam 100 or more laps in Olympic sized pools everyday but Sundays.

Buzz is survived by Helen, his wife of 61 years, daughter Dyanne; son Kelly (Jamie); and three grandchildren: Jaydiin, Jace, and Jayla May.

A man whose life was guided by purpose and passion from an early age, Floyd "Buzz" Stiles leaves behind a legacy of service to his family, church, and country.

A memorial service for Buzz will be held at Paradise Valley United Methodist Church on Tuesday, July 1 at 11:00 am. There will be a reception following the service.

In lieu of flowers a donation could be made to the Raymond and Minerva Greb scholarship fund at South Dakota State University which is where Buzz and Helen met. (The address is South Dakota State University Foundation;Lohr Building; 815 Medary Ave; Brookings, SD 57006)