Tennessee Obituary – It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Dr. Gale Iles, a beloved professor at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC), who died unexpectedly on Friday, March 14, 2025, after a sudden health-related event. Dr. Iles, who served as a faculty member in the Department of Criminal Justice since 2006, left behind a lasting impact not only in the academic world but also within the local community. Her death marks the end of an era of tireless service, but her legacy will undoubtedly live on through the countless students and colleagues she mentored, the projects she championed, and the people whose lives she touched through her generosity.
Dr. Gale Iles was an esteemed professor and scholar in the field of criminal justice, recognized for her expertise in courts and sentencing. She earned her Ph.D. in Criminal Justice from the University of Nebraska, Omaha, and subsequently dedicated nearly two decades of her life to shaping the future of criminal justice professionals at UTC. Throughout her career, Dr. Iles became a respected authority on criminal justice issues, particularly in the areas of court systems, sentencing policies, and reform.
Dr. Gale Iles Tennessee Death, Obituary: Beloved Professor At The University Of Tennessee At Chattanooga (UTC) HAs Died
Her academic work was prolific, as she co-authored nearly 20 peer-reviewed publications and secured over $1 million in grant funding. These scholarly contributions made a significant impact on the field, advancing knowledge and sparking important conversations about criminal justice practices and reforms. Her colleagues, students, and professional peers recognized her not only for her academic expertise but also for her unwavering commitment to the practical application of her research in real-world settings.
Dr. Iles was also known for her profound dedication to her students. Over the years, she mentored and taught thousands of students at UTC, always striving to empower them with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to succeed in their careers. Her students were not only academically supported but also given opportunities to expand their professional networks. Many have gone on to successful careers in criminal justice, public policy, law enforcement, and social services, largely due to the foundation of guidance Dr. Iles provided.
While Dr. Iles’ contributions to academia were immense, her impact went far beyond the classroom. She was deeply committed to serving her community, with a particular focus on improving the lives of underserved populations. Dr. Iles volunteered for a wide variety of local organizations and served on numerous boards and advisory committees.
She was an active member of the Hamilton County Community Corrections Advisory Board, where she used her expertise to advise on policies and initiatives designed to improve the local criminal justice system. Additionally, Dr. Iles worked as a consultant for the Hamilton County Family Justice Center, helping to improve services for families dealing with domestic violence. Her involvement in such initiatives showed her unyielding dedication to making the criminal justice system more effective, humane, and accessible for all.
Dr. Iles was also an evaluator for the Veterans Treatment Court Planning Initiative, a program aimed at offering veterans an alternative to incarceration through rehabilitation and support. Her insights into this program were invaluable, as she combined her academic expertise with her deep sense of empathy and her commitment to serving those who had served the nation.
Her work extended beyond criminal justice and into broader social justice causes. She was a volunteer for the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition, advocating for the rights of vulnerable populations. Dr. Iles was also a passionate supporter of Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Greater Chattanooga, where she served on the Board of Directors. She was particularly dedicated to her role as a Big Sister, and her relationship with her Little Sister was one of the most cherished aspects of her life.
Dr. Iles’ service to others was always selfless, often going above and beyond what was expected. On one occasion, she took her Little Sister on an all-expenses-paid cruise, creating memories that would last a lifetime. In another instance, she quietly paid a UTC student’s tuition when she became aware of their financial struggles. Her acts of kindness were not done for recognition, and she never sought praise for her generosity. Rather, these acts of compassion were a reflection of Dr. Iles’ core values—a belief in the power of education, mentorship, and service to others.
Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Iles had many other passions that added depth to her character and enriched her life. A talented flutist, Dr. Iles was an active member of the L’abri Symphony for nearly a decade. Music was a source of joy for her, and it provided a creative outlet that balanced the rigor of her academic and community work. Through her musical talents, Dr. Iles was able to connect with others in a different way, using the universal language of music to bring people together and foster community.
Dr. Iles was also a passionate traveler, visiting more than 30 countries during her lifetime. Her global experiences deepened her appreciation for different cultures and perspectives, making her a true citizen of the world. She was always eager to learn from others, whether through travel, music, or conversations with people from different walks of life. Her travels only seemed to enhance her commitment to social justice, as she sought to understand the struggles and achievements of people across the globe.
Perhaps the most defining feature of Dr. Gale Iles’ life was her extraordinary generosity. She had a remarkable ability to give without expecting anything in return, whether it was her time, resources, or compassion. She touched countless lives through her mentorship, her charitable actions, and her unwavering support for those in need. Dr. Iles’ legacy is one of love, kindness, and selflessness, and it will undoubtedly continue to inspire those who knew her.
Her colleagues and students remember Dr. Iles as not just a brilliant academic but also as someone who genuinely cared about people. Her kindness was felt by all who worked with her, and her mentorship was a lifeline for many students navigating the challenges of their studies and careers. Dr. Iles was always there to listen, offer advice, and provide support, making her not just a professor but a lifelong mentor and friend.
Dr. Gale Iles’ passing is a tremendous loss for the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, the Chattanooga community, and the broader field of criminal justice. Her contributions to academia, social justice, and community service were immeasurable, and her legacy will continue to inspire and guide those who had the privilege of working with her.
As we mourn the loss of Dr. Iles, we remember her not only for her impressive academic achievements and professional accomplishments but also for the incredible impact she had on the lives of those around her. Her work, her kindness, and her generosity will continue to resonate with her students, her colleagues, and everyone who had the honor of knowing her.
Dr. Iles’ memory will live on through the countless lives she touched and the meaningful change she brought to the world. Her legacy will be carried forward by those who were fortunate enough to call her a teacher, mentor, colleague, and friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and the entire UTC community during this incredibly difficult time.
