Rev. Robert Joe Stiles, age 77, of Waynesville, North Carolina, passed away peacefully to be home with his Lord and Savior on March 21, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

A native of Haywood County, Robert was born on February 9, 1949, to the late George Clifford Stiles and Lovon Elizabeth Gunter Stiles. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, pastor, and friend who lived a life rooted in faith, service, and love for others.

Robert faithfully served his community for many years, working with Dayco for 21 years and the Town of Waynesville for 13 years in the Street Department. More importantly, he answered a higher calling as a pastor, serving the Lord and ministering to others with a servant’s heart. He was a dedicated Pastor of Sugar Creek Baptist Church for over 11 years.

He found great joy in the simple blessings of life, fishing, camping, and hunting but above all, Robert cherished his family. Known as a true “family man,” he was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, embodying a spirit of kindness and compassion that will be deeply missed.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, George Stiles and Billy Stiles; sister, Barbara Medford; and grandson, Shaun Webb who passed in 2023.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 58 years, Peggy Stiles; daughters, Libbie Shelton (Ricky) and Audrey Gaddis (Mike); sons, Ronnie Stiles (Kim) and Clifford Stiles (Teresa); sister, JoAnn Medford; along with 11 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at Wells Funeral Home in Waynesville with Rev. Steve Webb officiating. The family will receive friends two hours prior to the service from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Garrett-Hillcrest Memorial Park.

Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville has been entrusted with Robert Stiles care.