Hiles

James Monroe “Squire” Hiles Jr., 92, of Karns City, Perry Township, Armstrong County, passed away peacefully Monday afternoon, July 20, 2026, at Quality Life Services — Sugar Creek.

James was born in Perry Township, Armstrong County, on July 22, 1933. He was the son of the late James M. Sr. and Nellie E. Barger Hiles.

He attended Fairview Township-Karns City High School and was a U.S. Army veteran, having served in the Korean War. In his earlier years, Squire was a truck driver and had been employed by Bruin Drilling. He retired from Indspec Chemical in Petrolia following more than 20 years of service.

James was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge No. 278, Connoquenessing, for more than 70 years. He enjoyed farming, the company of his family and was affectionately “Pappy” to his 13 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.

Mr. Hiles was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Ann Young Hiles, who passed away June 3, 2017.

He is survived by his children, Steve Hiles and his wife, Kathy, of Chicora, Cynthia Hillwig and her husband, Rodger, of Karns City, Kathy Rumbaugh and her husband, Dave, of Hilliards, Jeffrey Hiles and his wife, Wanda, of Karns City, and Marcia Roessing and her husband, J.T., of Parker; as well as a number of nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Linda Carol Hiles; two brothers; and five sisters.

HILES — Private funeral arrangements for James Monroe “Squire” Hiles Jr., who died Monday, July 20, 2026, were under the direction of HILE FUNERAL HOME OF KARNS CITY.

Interment beside his wife took place at Bear Creek Cemetery, in Petrolia.

To send a condolence, please visit www.hilefh.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.