Elizabeth Talman Chiles (known as Libby) died in Lexington, Virginia, on December 23, 2020, just short of her 104th birthday.
She was born on January 15, 1917 to Bessie Maupin and Delaware Temple Talman.
She and her three brothers were raised in Richmond.
She graduated from the Richmond Division of William and Mary (now VCU) in 1937 with a bachelor of science degree in social science.
Since Libby's three brothers graduated from VMI, it was inevitable that she would meet John W. Chiles, her future husband, at VMI. He was a "brother rat" of her youngest brother, John E. Talman, '39. Shortly afterwards, a 70-year love affair began when John and Libby were married in California just before John was sent overseas with the U.S. Army Air Corps. He was a B-17 pilot in the South Pacific during World War II.
She and John had two daughters and two sons, all of whom were born in and attended schools in Virginia. In addition to raising them, she also had a full-time job as a library assistant in the Fairfax County Library System. After 18 years, she retired as a circulation supervisor.
She and John enjoyed traveling, especially by sea, on freighters and on around-the-world cruise ships. They were a gregarious couple who loved to entertain. No one wanted to miss the annual Azalea Party in Falls Church. They were fond of dancing and were a striking couple on the dance floor. Her cooking was much in demand by her family and friends. One of her grandsons gave her the ultimate compliment: "Grandma, you're a good cooker." She was an avid swimmer. Until she was 90 years old, she'd swim a half a mile four times a week.
Mrs. Chiles is survived by her children, Elizabeth C. Svee (Richard), John W. Chiles, Jr. (Judy), Judith T. Chiles and David N. Chiles; and by her grandchildren, Lisa B. Chiles (David Chesnutt), Jessica J. Chiles, Daniel T. Chiles (Tori), Michelle E. Martel (Brian) and Nicholas N. Chiles; and by her great-grandchildren, Gavin C. Chiles (Samantha), Addison N. Chiles, Ryland J. Chiles and Milo A. Chiles-Wachs. Her sister-in-law, Helen Chiles Mason also survives her, as do many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband, John W. Chiles, and by her mother and father, Bessie M. and Delaware T. Talman, and by her brothers, Woods G. Talman (Martha), William T. Talman (Gladys) and John E. Talman.
Donations in her name may be made to the Lexington Public Library where she was an active volunteer at: Rockbridge Regional Library-Lexington, 138 S. Main St., Lexington, VA 24450, or to the charity of one's choice.
The cremains will be placed by the family in the Chiles plot at High Bridge Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Natural Bridge.
Due to COVID-19, no public memorial service will be held at this time.
Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory.
