Carla Jiles

Carla Jane (Kennedy) Jiles, age 66, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2023, in Hastings, Michigan after a long battle with Parkinson's. She was born on April 3,1957 in Hastings, Michigan, the daughter of Alan and Beverly (Beadle) Kennedy. Carla was a big sister to Colleen (Gordon) Elliott and Christine (James) Cotant often filling in as part time mother while her mother, Beverly, finished getting her nursing degree. Carla was a lifelong resident of Hastings. She graduated from Hastings High School with the class of 1975. In 1976, She married her high school love Steven Jiles. Carla was a loving spouse to Steve for 47 years. Carla was a devoted mother to Frederick (Laura) Jiles and Stephanie (Matthew) Hokanson. She found immense fulfillment in nurturing and supporting her children as they pursued their dreams. Carla's love and guidance were a constant source of strength and inspiration for her family. In her professional life, Carla made a positive impact on the lives of many as a paraprofessional at Northeastern Elementary in Hastings. She had a nurturing and caring nature and spent most of her time working with lower elementary students. Later on, Carla transitioned to a role at Walmart, where she continued to demonstrate a helpful demeanor. Her warm smile and genuine kindness brightened the days of those she encountered, making her an invaluable member of the Hastings Walmart. Carla's grandchildren held a special place in her heart, and she delighted in their accomplishments and milestones. She took great pleasure in being a doting, supportive grandmother to Megan (Dustin) Bateson, McKinney Jiles, Troy Hokanson, Keagan Jiles, Cooper Hokanson, Landen Jiles, Breslin Jiles, Pearl Jiles, and Abraham Jiles as well as a great grandmother to Calvin Bateson and Stella Bateson. Her love and support extended to her many nephews and nieces. A visitation to celebrate the life of Carla Jane (Kennedy) Jiles will be held on June 28th at 6-8 PM at Lifegate Church (301 East State Road, Hastings). Family and friends are invited to attend and share their stories and memories of her. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Hastings Athletics (Saxon Soccer), in memory of Carla Jiles. Donations can be mailed to Hastings Athletics 520 West South St., Hastings, MI 49058. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Carla Jiles, please visit our flower store.