John C. Giddens

With heavy hearts and loving memories, we celebrate the life and cherished memory of John Christopher Giddens, affectionately known as, “John-John” and “Chris”, a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, beloved family member, cherished friend, and proud veteran of the United States Navy. John departed this earthly life in the comfort of his home on September 25, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, generosity, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

John was a 1986 graduate of Pamlico County High School located in Bayboro, North Carolina, where he excelled on the football field. He continued his educational journey at Fayetteville State University located in North Carolina before answering the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy, where he served for four years.

Following his military service, John pursued various professional opportunities while remaining committed to furthering his education. His determination and dedication led him to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer and Information Science from Skyline College. John further challenged himself by obtaining additional degrees from Strayer University and ECPI. Through his perseverance, knowledge, and strong work ethic, John established a successful career in information technology, contributing his talents and expertise to both the Virginia Lottery and the Supreme Court of Virginia.

John was a man who truly loved his family and friends. His greatest pride and joy were found in the people he loved. Family and friendship were at the heart of everything he did. He treasured opportunities to gather with loved ones, share stories, exchange laughter, and create lasting memories.

John also had a tremendous passion for sports, especially his beloved Dallas Cowboys. A loyal and enthusiastic fan, he proudly supported his team through victories and defeats. Whether celebrating a win, discussing the latest game, or engaging in friendly debates with fellow sports enthusiasts, John embraced every opportunity to share his love for football. His unwavering loyalty to the Cowboys was just one of the many qualities that made him unforgettable.

One of John's greatest joys was cooking. During his service in the United States Navy, he served as a cook, developing a passion that would remain with him throughout his life. For John, cooking was more than preparing a meal; it was his way of showing love and bringing people together. Nothing made him happier than seeing family and friends gathered around a table, enjoying a meal he had prepared. John understood that some of life's greatest blessings were found in the simplest moments: a home-cooked meal, a good game, the company of friends, and the love of family.

Although John is no longer physically with us, his memory will live on through the lives he touched, the meals he lovingly prepared, the laughter he shared, and the countless memories he created with those he loved.

John was welcomed into eternal rest by his great-grandmother, Ida Smith; his grandparents, Alonzo and Doretha Smith; his sister Angela Giddens, his beloved granddaughter Kya Taylor; and several aunts and uncles.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted wife, Mrs. June Taylor-Giddens of Hopewell, Virginia; parents. John and Sharon Giddens of Boston, Massachusetts; his sons, Anthony Taylor (Nannette) of Hopewell, Virginia and Cliffton Taylor (Shatima) of Chester, Virginia; his grandson whom he loved dearly, Gavin Taylor of Chester, Virginia; his brother, Stan Giddens of Boston, Massachusetts; his great-aunt, Mary Smith of Mesic, North Carolina; his aunt, Edna Smith of Boston, Massachusetts; his brothers-in-law, Randolph Taylor (Sandy), Kirk Taylor both of Prince George, Virginia, William Taylor of Atlanta, Georgia, Lawrence Taylor of Hopewell, Virginia, Kenny Taylor (Paula) of Petersburg, Virginia, Maurice Taylor of Baltimore, Maryland and Michael Bratcher of Indian Trail, North Carolina; sisters-in-law, Elaine Dennis (David), Rhonda Bratcher both of Hopewell, Virginia and Patricia Pettaway (Emanuel) of Prince George, Virginia; his cousins, Dwayne Smith of Boston Massachusetts and Michael McCray of Mesic, North Carolina; along with a host of other loving relatives and friends who will forever treasure his memory.

As we celebrate his life, we honor his service to our country, his devotion to his family and friends, and the love he so freely shared.

John Christopher Giddens will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Rest peacefully, John. Your place at the table may be empty, but the love you served will remain in our hearts forever.

Services will be held 1:00 P.M., Saturday, October 17, 2026, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA. the Rev. Ron Parker, eulogist. The interment will be held 2:00 P.M., Monday, October 19, 2026, at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery, 5310 Milners Road, Suffolk, VA.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page or click here to view: https://vimeo.com/event/6277165?fl=so&fe=fs