Dennis D. Giles

Dennis Doroteo Giles, 80, of Goldsboro, Maryland, unexpectedly passed away on May 10, 2026.

He was born on April 18, 1946, to the late Benjamin R. Giles and late Marie H. (Wilson) Giles Kennedy. Dennis was raised in “The Village of Harlem,” New York. As a youth “Danny” (as Dennis was known to many) would lead his nephews Paul and Gary, on summer hikes to the local pool. Throughout the year they would also navigate a mile long journey, across the Harlem River into the Bronx. The destination: A movie theater, near Yankee Stadium!

During his formative years, Danny was an active member of the Boy Scouts of America. And a 1963 graduate, of DeWitt Clinton High School.

Danny proudly served, in the United States Army. This included the Army Reserves and 22 months of active duty. He saw fierce action in Vietnam, where he was wounded. Honorably Discharged at the rank of Sargeant E5, Danny earned the: Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and was awarded the Purple Heart for his selfless courage.

Upon being Honorably Discharged, he returned to New York. To no fault of their own, many returning Vietnam Veterans did not receive the acknowledgement and support they earned. It was not an easy adjustment, for Danny. Still, he made his mark in the workforce. Danny held security positions at Harlem Hospital, the Veterans Administration Hospital and the telephone company. His hard work and dedication resulted in Danny moving up the ranks, to a supervisory role. He also sought, additional education.

After his parents moved to Caroline County, Danny would follow them. There he added, to his resume. Danny was especially proud of his tenure, as part of the Ridgely Elementary School janitorial staff. There he also rose, to a supervisory position. Danny relished his relationship, with the students. Many viewed him, as a surrogate sibling, father-figure or counselor. They would affectionately call him, “Mr. Dan!”

Danny was a member of New Beginnings United Methodist Church in Ridgely, Maryland, where he sang in the choir. He was also a member of local Veterans organizations. Danny enjoyed drawing and loved fishing, with dear friends. He liked his friends to be your friends.

After his second back surgery, Danny was not as mobile. He kept more to himself. But, enjoyed the company of his pets. Especially his dogs Reba, then Eleanor.

Family and friends would check on him. And Danny was not shy, about reaching out by telephone! And more likely than not, he would take you on a trip down memory lane!

Now, we hold him close, in our memories.

In addition to his parents Benjamin and Marie, Danny was preceded in death by: sister Florence “Jackie” Stubbs (and brother-in-law Arthur); sister Marilyn “Jerry” Knight (and brother-in-law Tommy); nephew Paul Stubbs and niece Donna Knight.

He is survived by: nephew Gary D. Stubbs (Ingrid); niece Michelle Knight; Paul’s wife Carol and their children: Aisha (her son Jamel Jr.); Khanna (wife Gina and their sons Keysaun and Shawn); along with a host of extended family and friend