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BORN
1960
DIED
2025
Greg Iles Obituary
He was known for his best-selling "Natchez Burning" trilogy, part of his popular Penn Cage series.
Iles is also being remembered for playing guitar in the Rock Bottom Remainders alongside other authors, like Stephen King and Amy Tan.
By Legacy News Staff
(Image: Greg Iles via Wikimedia Commons)
15 Entries
Vick Mickunas
Yesterday
Greg was truly one of our great novelists. I had the pleasure of doing a couple of radio shows with him and he was such a kind, generous, sparkling guest. He walked the walk, confronting racism. Speaking out about the KKK. I had hoped to talk to him again for Southern Man last year but it was not to be, he was dealing with his illness. Rest In Peace, Brother. Here's a link to our first interview if you want to hear the voice of this articulate man:
https://www.wyso.org/show/book-nook/2017-04-19/book-nook-mississippi-blood-by-greg-iles
Mary
August 24, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss. I read most every book he wrote. He had the ability to capture you until the last page. I am going to miss him as one of my favorite authors. Mary Whitworth [email protected].
Julie K.
August 24, 2025
My favorite writer of all time, I´m devastated to hear of his passing. I will never forget him and his talent. May he rest in eternal peace forever.
Cara Marris
August 23, 2025
Every book he wrote was a brilliant exploration into our humanity and challenges all of us who thought we understood about racism and thought we were above it. He was a brilliant writer who was not afraid to take on issues many would prefer to ignore, without being didactic and while being hugely entertaining. I believe he will reside in the cannon of the great southern writers, along with Faulkner. He died far too young. My deepest condolences to his wife and his children.
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Carolyn ILes Phillips
August 23, 2025
Carolyn ILES Phillips
August 23, 2025
Rich Courtney
August 22, 2025
I had the pleasure of playing with Greg in Frankly Scarlet in 1986-1987 when he was writing Spandau Phoenix on his laptop while we traveled the SEC Frat Circuit. I recently had the honor of a reunion of sorts with him working on some music we had started 35 years ago. Sadly we didn't get to finish. My deepest sympathy and condolences to his family and close friends. May you be finally at rest, Greg Ikea, where there is no pain and no weeping. Where the Grace and Mercy of our God has welcomed you into His loving arms.
Shalom ,
...Rich Courtney
Diane Soja
August 21, 2025
My most heartfelt sadness. He will be missed. He will be remembered.
Janice O´Brien
August 21, 2025
I had the pleasure of meeting him and he was so humble and kind. I loved all his books, especially the Natchez Burning Trilogy. He was also good at playing guitar for the Rock Bottom Remainders. He will be missed.
Pam Waaland
August 19, 2025
I waited and waited to read another one of Greg's wonderful books; so glad he got to finish his last. What remarkable resiliency after his accident -- he lived life to the fullest and will be missed by many. RIP. You'll live on in your characters.
Dr. Pam Waaland
Benjamin M Dent
August 19, 2025
I had the privilege of meeting Mr. Iles on a couple of book signing events in St.Louis - always enjoyed listening to him. At the last one - he brought
his guitar and played a couple of songs and referenced his Author's band.
Don't get that at every book signing. His books were great - loved the one's set in Natchez. Was currently reading "Southern Man" and shocked to learn of his passing. He will be missed.
Linda Dinick
August 19, 2025
I came upon your obituary by accident and it deeply saddened me. I read all of your books and turned others on to your wonderful writing style. I will miss your writing.
Juliana Abello
August 18, 2025
A brilliant writer who remained humble and dedicated to his work, he will be deeply missed and remembered forever. Rest in eternal peace Greg.
Dr. Frank M Wilson
August 18, 2025
loved your novels. You wrote with warmth and grit. I will miss you.
A long time reader
Lee A Broussard
August 18, 2025
One of the greatest writers... up there with Faulkner and Walker Percy... he sure will be missed... but his books will have a special place in my home. Prayers are with his family always
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