Carolyn Boddorff Giles, 78, of Wilmington, DE passed peacefully with her family by her side on June 20th, 2021 from the effects of leukemia. The devoted and beloved wife of Dr. Howard “Howdy” Cameron Giles, Jr. and loving mother to Robin Giles Elliott (David) and Julie Giles Kelly (Matt).
Born December 6, 1942 in Havertown, PA, Carolyn was the only child of Clarence and Dorothea Boddorff. She was a graduate of Dover High School and attended the University of Delaware where she met Howdy, her soul mate and husband of 57 years. The University of Delaware symbolized the start of their wonderful lifetime together and where she and Howdy developed close friendships that forever enriched their lives. Carolyn was captain of the cheerleading squad when the Blue Hens won the National Championship in football in 1963. They remained avid Blue Hen fans, loved tailgating with friends before home football games, and have been season ticket holders for more than 50 years.
Her life’s journey was filled with so many life enhancing experiences, from traveling and cruising to countless golf excursions across the U.S. and abroad. She was a passionate Philadelphia sports fan, especially the Phillies and Eagles, traveling to two of the three Eagles Super Bowl appearances. She loved to dance, sew, spend time with family, play bridge, do aerobics with friends, and go to concerts. She loved country music but her absolute favorite was Neil Diamond. “Sweet Caroline” will forever be a song that reminds her family and friends of her vibrant nature.
She and Howdy also spent a great deal of time at The Bay Hill Club in Orlando, Florida during the course of the year, another homestead that provided extraordinary friendships and life experiences that she treasured.
Carolyn’s qualities were limitless but she will be most remembered for her unconditional love of her family, especially her four grandchildren, Cameron, Giles, Luke and Lindsay. She may have left us in body, however she will never, ever, leave us in spirit.
Affectionately called “The Queen of Cool” by the love of her life, Carolyn’s engaging personality and fun-loving spirit will be deeply missed by so many.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Carolyn Giles’ memory may be made to the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children or the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
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