Kenneth Odell Giles Jr.

Kenneth Odell “Shorty” Giles, 67, of Prospect, Virginia, whose heart was always firmly rooted in Cumberland, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2026, at 9:33 p.m., with his niece and granddaughter by his side and surrounded by the love of his family.

Shorty was born May 4, 1958, in Farmville to Pearlie and “Big Shorty” Giles. As the youngest of the family, he grew up under the watchful care of his sisters, Judy and Debbie. Later in life he built a family of his own with the love of his life, Rhonda, and their children Jennifer and Jamey.

A true jack of all trades with a free spirit and unforgettable sense of humor, Shorty loved God, loved his family, and cherished being “Papa Shorty” and “Gaga” to his grandchildren. He was the kind of friend who would give you the shirt off his back and was rarely seen without his loyal companion, Maggie.

Shorty is now reunited with many loved ones who went before him, including his parents and his beloved wife Rhonda. Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort imagining him wearing his crown as the Mountain Dew King, beside a big field and pond, listening to the country music he loved.

Memorial arrangements will be announced at a later time by the family.