In Loving Memory of Dedra Darlene “Dee Dee” Reese-Giles

Born: September 24, 1959

Dedra Darlene “Dee Dee” Reese-Giles, age 66, of Knoxville, TN (formerly of LaFollette), passed away on Friday, August 21, 2026. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert (R.L.) Reese; her niece, Angela Boston-Butler; and her grandparents, Tom and Carrie York, and Harley and Hester Reese, and mother-in-law, Shelby B. Giles.

Dee Dee was a graduate of the University of Tennessee, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in History.

After earning her degree, she was employed by the University of Tennessee in various positions, including as a library assistant. It was there that she met and married her husband, Sheldon Giles. 

She was an avid collector of knives and guns and loved attending related trade shows. She also had a deep love of history and was knowledgeable about a variety of topics. 

She accepted Christ at an early age and remained faithful in her beliefs. Dedra was loved by everyone who knew her and will be deeply missed 

She is survived by her husband, Sheldon Giles; her mother, Vieva Reese; her sister, Deborah Thompson (Terry); her niece, Carrie Pope (Andy); her grandnieces and grandnephews; Mary Kate, Qwen, and John of Dallas, Texas; her special aunt and uncle, Ray and Ina Reese; and a host of cousins, relatives, and friends.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, from 6:00 – 7:00 P.M. at Walters Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral Services will begin at 7:00 P.M. with Rev. Leon Fritts and Rev. Harry James officiating. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the Campbell County Cancer Association, P. O. Box 122, Jacksboro, TN 37757. Walters Funeral Home of LaFollette is honored to be serving the family of Dedra Darlene “Dee Dee” Reese-Giles.