Dr. Audrey E. Giles Pettijohn was born to loving Parents, the late Charles and Louise (Moore) Giles on April 2, 1935, in Salem, New Jersey. Her spirit of giving began at home. Her Mother and Father were active in the community. Audrey's educational journey began in the public schools in Salem; she received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Central State University, Wilberforce, Ohio; a Master's Degree in Supervision/Administration; from Glassboro State College (now Rowan University); a Doctor of Educational Administration degree, from Nova University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida and a Reading Certification from Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pa.

Dr. Pettijohn spent 36 years as an educator. Beginning her career in education as a first-grade teacher in Gouldtown, NJ for six years. Followed by employment with Salem City Board of Education, she organized and supervised the first four-year-old program as well as oversight of Salem's Child Study Program team members. She helped students and parents alike, with various concerns. During the summers, she served as Assistant Director of the Title One Program.

After receiving her M.A. in Education Administration, she began employment with the Pittsgrove Township Board of Education. This role led to her achieving the title of Principal of the Early Childhood School (Norma School). In this position, she implemented a pre-entry evaluation for kindergarten students. In her next educational move to Olivet School, she became the first African American Principal, in the school's history. During the years of employment, her "mission statement was to provide the richest educational environment and learning experiences for the Parents, Teachers, and the children she served.

Audrey loved spending time with her sister, L. Yvonne (Giles) Jordan and Brother-in-Law, Ron Jordan Sr and their family in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Every holiday, whether Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, you name it, Audrey was there.  The Giles Sisters would often travel to Maryland to spend time with their brother, the late Charles (Mickey) Giles Jr, and his family.

Audrey loved traveling, she was an avid reader, loved listening to music, especially Mahalia Jackson. Audrey was a life member of Mt. Pisgah AME Church, Salem, New Jersey. Where she served in various capacities. The latest being a Trustee and Church treasurer.

The Sisters, with their close bond, held hands until God summoned Audrey to join Heaven's ranks.

Audrey is survived by her sister, L. Yvonne (Giles) Jordan (Ron) and a host of Nieces, Nephews, Great Nieces, Great Nephews, God Children. Most importantly and eternally appreciated, her loving and amazing caretakers, Mrs. Cynthia Pritchett, Ms. Blanche Luzby, Mrs. Dorothy Levy, and Mr. Irving Cuff. All of whom, took care of her until the very end – the family cannot thank them enough for their overwhelming dedication!