Julia Gail Giddens

Julia Gail Giddens, 80, of Davenport, FL, passed away peacefully at home on January 29, 2026.

 Gail was born in Shamrock, FL, on February 18, 1945, to Christopher Columbus Johnson Jr and Rosa Lee (Young) Johnson. She attended Dixie County schools and graduated from Dixie County High School in Cross City, FL. Her favorite class was Home Economics, fueling her love for cooking and baking. She passed that passion on to her daughter, Rhonda and grandson, Cody. She was also an exceptional seamstress, making many of her and Rhonda’s clothes throughout their lives.  

Gail moved to Polk County, FL, in 1965, where she met and married James Hardy Giddens. They were married nearly 60 years, all of which residing in Davenport, Fl. Gail was a loving mother and grandmother, doting over her grandchildren every opportunity she could. Gail was greatly respected and dearly loved by her staff while serving as an office manager in the medical field for more than 30 years. In 2003, she followed her heart and opened her embroidery business in Davenport. She served her community for 20 years before closing her shop and retiring in 2023, enjoying more time at home.   

Loving the Lord, Gail was always active in church and many times served as the piano player wherever they attended. She loved to sing and give glory to God. Gail loved spending time at the beach with her family every summer. She also loved camping with her family and close friends who were like family, all of whom she cherished dearly.  

Gail leaves to cherish her memories her daughter, Rhonda Giddens (Jarvis Dennis); grandson, Cody Morgan (Nikki); great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, Payton, Jericho, Dante and Frankie; sisters, Martha Ann Osteen, Sheba Goodwin (Mike) and Rebecca Canaday (Dale); brothers, Mickey Johnson and Jerome Johnson (Tammy); and a host of nieces and nephews.  She is preceded in death by her husband, James Hardy Giddens; son, Craig Giddens; and grandson, Travis Morgan. 

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 3rd, 2026 at 12:00 pm followed by a funeral service at 1:00 pm all at Oak Ridge Funeral Care in Haines City, FL. Her final resting place will be at Evergreen Cemetery in Davenport, FL.