d The Obituary c

William Woodson Gayles was born in Norfolk County, Portsmouth, Virginia on August 4, 1932. He was the third of seven children born to the late Elma Elizabeth Gayles and William Woodson Gayles, Sr.

"Gayles" as he was called, received his early education in Portsmouth, Virginia. Gayles later joined the US Army at the age of 16 years. Gayles retired from the Army after serving 24 years as a Sgt. 1 ^st Class.  He was a certified Tank Commander in the military and a Rifle Specialist. He was a Veteran of two wars.

Gayles met and married Maggie Walker who preceded him in death; they were married for 47 years. Gayles lived in Pumphrey Community for over 50 years.

Gayles joined St. John United Methodist Church in 2001 under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Susan A. Spears.

Gayles was employed after retirement at Mac Millian Bloedell Company where he retired as the president of the Union.

Gayles was a boxer and Little League Coach and was faithful and loved being engaged with his family.

He spoiled his children and enjoyed traveling the World to see new adventures while serving in the US Army.

Gayles was preceded in death by his siblings, Vivian Dixon, Elma Moore, and Robert Gayles; William Woodson Gayles, III, AKA Rocky, his beloved son also preceded him in death.

Gayles leaves to cherish his memory; one loving son, Ronald "Pete" Gayles; four grandchildren, Noel "Pebbles" (daughter/granddaughter), Izell Speedy Gayles, Danise Gayles and Rhonda Walker; four great grandchildren, Myonna, Maggie, Stanley, and Iyana Gayles; two sisters, Barbara Wright and Dorothy Jones and a host of other family members and friends.