With deepest sorrow we at Henryhand Funeral Home regret to announce the passing of Franklin Leon Giles, 63, of N. Charleston, SC, formerly of Orangeburg, SC, who passed away on Saturday, November 22, 2025.

Life Reflections

Mr. Franklin Leon Giles was born on October 9, 1962 in Moncks Corner, South Carolina. He was the third child of Mr. Harry W. Giles, Jr. and the late Mrs. Nell Gibson Giles. Franklin departed this earthly life peacefully early Saturday morning on November 22, 2025, in the comfort of his sister's home while resting on a special cousin.

As a child, Franklin was reared in "The Small Church on the Side of the Road With the Big Welcome" affectionately known as Holy Trinity Church, St. Stephen, SC. He believed in the Lord and accepted Christ in his life. Visiting local churches and those abroad, Franklin freely sowed his tithes and offerings.  He lived his life believing if he could help someone as he lived his life, then his living would not be in vain.

Franklin was a proud 1980 graduate of St. Stephen High School. He found his love for basketball during his sophomore year under the leadership of Coach Cleve Hawkins. Earning recognition in his hometown, Franklin was recognized as one of the Dunkin' Duos and was featured in the Berkley Democrat Newspaper. He received several trophies during his high school basketball career which led to a full scholarship offer at South Carolina State University (SCSU) formerly South Carolina State College, Orangeburg, SC.

Franklin continued honing his basketball skills in college under the leadership and guidance of Coach John Jones. Continuing to soar while at SCSU, Franklin was recognized in the April 23, 1983 Jet magazine as the second highest rebounder in the nation.  He loved being a Bulldog!

Franklin left SCSU during the second semester of his senior year to play professional basketball overseas. Franklin was afforded the opportunity of a lifetime, playing professional basketball for over seven years in Turkey and France.  Showing his love for his mom, he had his mom visit with him and his family for a month in France.

Franklin enjoyed his time as a professional athlete, but he still had one desire - the desire to be an over the road driver! He enjoyed being a long-distance truck driver. For over 30 years he drove for Swift, Werner, TRD Trucking, and other companies. For a while, Franklin had his own rig.  He was often asked, "How long are you going to keep doing this?" His response, "Until the wheels come off or until I can't do it no more!" Franklin was also a certified trainer, training men and women from all over the world who desired to become a truck driver.

No matter where Franklin went, he never met a stranger; he had no problem striking up a conversation or making a new friend. Even though Franklin's careers took him all over the world, he always remained humble and modest. He remained compassionate, kindhearted, and full of life. He loved his family and friends and was always willing to give; he would give his last if needed.  Franklin's life spoke for itself. He once shared, "If God took me home tomorrow, I could truly say, I have had a good life!"

Franklin's mom, Mrs. Nell Gibson Giles, brother Harry Giles, III, sister, Bonita Giles-Gadsden, nephews, Benjamin Cleveland and John Jordan Gadsden preceded him in death.

Franklin leaves to cherish and celebrate his life, a special friend Rena Poinsette, his son Franklin Giles, Jr., his grandson, Amiar Bynum, his dad, Harry Giles, Jr., his siblings, Shelia Williams (Harvie), Pamela Jubar, Nelma Savage, and William Giles (Nichole). He also leaves to cherish and celebrate his life; special cousin, Alicia Thompson (Hopeton); bonus children, Brandan Palmer (Shanequa), Brandie Palmer, Leander M. Palmer, and Lavasha Knight; bonus grandsons, Ermias Green and Aden Bynum. Franklin's nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and friends will continue to cherish and celebrate his life.

All arrangements and professional services have been entrusted to Henryhand Funeral Home of St. Stephen, SC. 843-354-2292.