Giles Ledford, 95

Giles Ledford, 95, of Hayden Lake, Idaho, passed away peacefully Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, at Kootenai Health. He was born Dec. 16, 1930, in Brasstown, N.C., to Pink and Effie Ledford. 

He and his nine brothers and sisters farmed the land of Clay County alongside their parents. After graduating from high school, he joined the Air Force. After leaving the Air Force, he landed his first job in Michigan, where he met his wife of 69 years, Mildred Ledford. It was love at first sight, and they were married after only four months. They moved to Knoxville, Tenn., where Giles studied electrical engineering at the University of Tennessee. Giles’ career took them to New York, Alabama, Virginia and finally to Northern Idaho. He spent most of his career as a civilian for the Department of the Navy and dearly loved his research on Lake Pend Oreille in Idaho. 

Giles was much loved by family, co-workers and neighbors. He was admired for his patience, gentle spirit, and hands-on knowledge. For most of his life, he was found tinkering on cars, televisions, sprinkler systems, lawn mowers, and anything else that needed fixing. His southern roots were strong, and his children and grandchildren loved it when he cooked them biscuits and gravy.

Giles is lovingly remembered by his wife, Mildred Ledford; his children: Steve Ledford, John Ledford (and Lea Ledford) and Carol Ledford Lavery (and Ernie Gibson); his grandchildren: Haley Ledford, Taylor Ledford, Sean Lavery, Daniel Lavery, Megan Lavery, Kobe Barnes and Gracie Barnes; and his sister, Bessie Ledford Brendle.

At his request, cremation has taken place and no services are planned at this time. Online condolences are available at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.