Lynda Giles

Lynda Marie Giles passed away peacefully at the age of 57 on June 2, 2021. Lynda was born on June 26, 1963 in Fredericksburg, Virginia to David and Lynne Lester. Lynda is survived by her husband Gator Giles, and their four children Luke, Summer, Sandy, and Maggie Giles. Her first son Garrett predeceased her in 1993. She is also survived by her sisters Elizabeth Dumville (husband David) and Susan Wannemacher (husband Eric).

Lynda was a caring aunt to Matthew Craig, Ryan Craig, Corey Craig, Kevin Craig, Jake Wannemacher, Rose Wannemacher, Charlie Wannemacher, Seth Wannemacher, Sage Wannemacher, and Logan Dimatteo and Brooke Dimatteo.

She stole Gator’s heart while attending Winter Haven High School. They met the summer of their junior year at Daytona Beach in 1980. They shared a fun-loving relationship leading to their marriage in July of 1989. Lynda enjoyed working as a travel agent, providing her the opportunity to travel extensively throughout her early twenties. Her role as a mother was her career. However, she also found time to serve as President of Gator Industries, Inc., and played an essential role in the growth and development of the company.

Lynda and Gator adored their children and enjoyed an active and loving family life. Lynda was an exceptional and selfless mother. She relished every moment with her children while spending many weekends exploring the outdoors, boating, and fishing.
Lynda was a dedicated athlete; in her youth she ran track and swam on the swim team. In adulthood, she was an avid runner, bicyclist, and lifted weights.
Lynda loved wholeheartedly and genuinely, she lived with a free spirit and found excitement in every day, she cared deeply, and embraced others with a warm heart.

Lynda was diagnosed with brain cancer (glioblastoma) in 2018. She defied the odds, giving cancer one hell of a fight; with her family and dedicated treatment team at Shands Hospital, University of Florida, by her side.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Head for the Cure Foundation (Menu tab “in remembrance”, Lynda Giles memorial)