John Gilbert Pyles

John Gilbert Pyles was born on May 20, 1932 in Indianapolis, Indiana and answered God's call on Monday, July 23, 2018. He was the son of Gilbert and Esther Pyles of Indianapolis who preceded him in death. John grew up in Indianapolis and attended Barnes United Methodist Church as a young boy. As an adult, John continued to attend Barnes and was a faithful life member and supporter as well as a participant on several committees including the finance committee for several years. He celebrated over 60 years as a church member. John was a 1949 graduate of Crispus Attucks High School. After graduating, John enlisted in the United States Air Force where he was a Supply Specialist and received the National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct medal for his service to our Country. After service John began to take courses at the Indiana University Extension that is currently IUPUI. He also prided himself in serving as a Board member for the Selective Service System for over 10 years. John married the love of his life, Johnetta Campbell who preceded him in death. They were married for over 25 years. Both enjoyed hosting theme parties, eating hot dogs, ice cream, trips to the dr...[more]

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in, cooking big breakfasts and playing Monopoly all night long at their home with their nieces. John worked at Stewart-Warner Corporation in Indianapolis, where he was a Heat Assembler. Considered a sharp dresser and a jokester on the phone, John was the life of any party and every family gathering. Because of his great sense of humor, John excelled in his role as human resources coordinator for the Indianapolis Public School system, where he worked with many individuals daily in placing them in positions within IPS as well as counseling them on the daily work struggles. John retired from IPS and begin to subsequently work for the United States Department of Labor Job Corps, where he assisted young people in vocational training. He also worked with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. John had a heart of gold and never met a stranger he didn't know. He could hold your attention for hours with his skillful and colorful gift of gab. He got a big kick out of spinning tales of his illustrious service career and his travels around the world. It was nothing for him to bolt out a big laugh and say "Oh I'm just kidding." John will truly be missed by his family and friends. Left to cherish his memory are his sister: Jewell LaRue (Robert-deceased), his brother Jim Pyles (Vern) of Elkhart, his nieces Collette DuValle (Reginald), Pam Pyles Walker (Duke) of Cincinnati; Denise LaRue (deceased) and Patrice Pyles Barnes of Philadelphia. His great nephews Robert Ragland and Reggie DuValle and great niece Lauryn Duvalle. Special friend Wilma Jones and long-time best friend James "Buddy" Duncan. His presence will be missed by a host of cousins and friends. A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 28, 2018 at 10:00am at Barnes United Methodist Church, 900 West 30th Street, with the Service beginning at 11:00am.