Johnnie Dee Giles

Johnnie Dee Giles, a devoted husband, father, and accomplished professional and community leader, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2025, at the age of 63. Born on January 25, 1961 in Oakland, CA, Johnnie lived a life marked by dedication to his family, career, and community, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and kindness that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Johnnie is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Nellie Martin-Giles, and their son, Daniel Giles. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dee and Margaret Shizuka Giles, and his sister, Kim Serrano.

A proud alumnus of the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences, and Pepperdine University, where he completed his MBA, Johnnie pursued excellence in every aspect of his professional journey. He was the founder and president of JDGiles LLC, a firm specializing in California political strategies, business consulting, and private equity solutions. Prior to establishing his own company, Johnnie held prominent roles as Executive Vice President for a private equity firm and during a distinguished 15-year tenure at Comcast NBCUniversal. He finished his career at Comcast as Executive Director for Comcast Corporation and Vice President of External Affairs for Comcast Cable, where he was responsible for developing policy positions and advocacy strategies in support of the company's various lines of business.

At Comcast, he previously led government and regulatory affairs for California and served as a leader on the federal external affairs team on national policy matters while championing diversity initiatives that left an indelible mark on the industry. His groundbreaking partnerships with the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community were particularly impactful. In recognition of his efforts to promote inclusion within the industry and as a seasoned cable veteran with more than 30 years of industry experience, CableFax Magazine honored him as one of the "Most Influential Minorities in Cable" in 2010.

Johnnie's dedication to service extended far beyond his professional achievements. A passionate advocate for the Asian American and Pacific Islander community and underserved populations alike, he served on numerous boards dedicated to advocacy and empowerment. Among his many leadership roles, he most recently served as Board Chair for Asian Pacific Islander American Vote and the Urban League of Greater San Francisco Bay Area. He also was a board member of Reproductive Freedom for All, the Asian Pacific American Leadership Foundation, and the Center for Asian American Media. His remarkable contributions earned him prestigious accolades such as the 2024 National Association of Asian Pacifics in Politics and Public Affairs Forward Award and the Pacific Bridge Arts Luminary Award.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Johnnie embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. An avid golfer who found peace on the green, he was also a lifelong sports fan who cheered fervently for the Oakland Raiders (now Las Vegas Raiders), Golden State Warriors, and Oakland A's. Traveling brought him immense happiness--especially trips to Hawaii--and he was known for sharing laughter through his sharp sense of humor. Above all else, Johnnie had an extraordinary gift for mentorship; he uplifted those around him with his wisdom and unwavering support.

Those fortunate enough to know Johnnie will remember his kindness, leadership, and ability to inspire others to reach their full potential. His memory will live on not only through the countless lives he touched but also through the enduring example he set as a leader who believed in inclusion and empowerment.

Johnnie Dee Giles leaves behind a legacy of compassion and achievement that will resonate for generations to come. May those who mourn him find comfort in celebrating a life so well-lived.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in honor of Johnnie with the American Cancer Society https://raiseyourway.donordrive.com/campaign/Johnnie-Dee-Giles OR
National Multiple Sclerosis Society: https://donate.nationalmssociety.org/campaign/Johnnie-Dee-Giles