Announcement of Death
Our community mourns the loss of Giles William Blunden, a passionate advocate for sustainable living, who passed away on September 28, 2024, in Carrboro, North Carolina.
Biography
Born in 1942 in London during World War II, Giles William Blunden had a unique and diverse upbringing. His family migrated to Australia shortly after his birth. At the age of 12, he relocated to California with his mother after her remarriage. Giles spent his teenage years in Los Angeles before enlisting in the U.S. Army, where he was stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. It was there that he met his first wife, Patricia Bassett, and began building a family.
After his service, Giles pursued his passion for architecture, obtaining a degree from the University of Utah. His education was the catalyst for his lifelong dedication to green design and environmentally sustainable living. In 1970, Giles moved to the Chapel Hill-Carrboro area, where his commitment to creating innovative, eco-friendly homes flourished. Over the years, he worked on numerous collaborative projects, including a geodesic dome for his family in the 1970s and a solar-powered home built around a shipping container with his partner Marywinne Sherwood—his final project.
Loved Ones
Giles is survived by his partner Marywinne Sherwood; his children Brent (Phoebe) Blunden and Jessica (Hilawe) Blunden; his siblings Hugh and Sarah Blunden, Harden and Debbie Richardson; and his grandchildren Hanna Blunden Judson (Lucas), Megan Blunden, Bleecker Blunden, Leah, and Helina Semunegus. His loss is also deeply felt by his wide circle of friends and the many people who benefited from his generous spirit and dedication to his community.
Memorial Services
Details regarding a memorial service will be shared with the community soon. Family and friends are planning a celebration of Giles’ life, honoring his contributions to sustainable living, his love of family, and his commitment to making the world a better place.
Closing Thoughts
Giles William Blunden’s legacy of sustainability, innovation, and community engagement will continue to inspire many for generations to come. He was driven by the belief that it is possible to live comfortably while respecting and protecting the Earth. His influence on co-housing communities like Arcadia and Pacifica, along with his dedication to supporting local organizations such as the Carrboro Art Center and the Eco Institute, will not be forgotten.
Hobbies
In addition to his work as an architect and advocate, Giles was an enthusiastic pool player, known for his competitive nature and enjoyment of the game. Even in his final months, he took on a personal challenge—restoring a vintage 1969 Jaguar—which brought joy to him and his neighbors as he continued to defy the odds following his cancer diagnosis.
A memorial gathering to celebrate Giles’s life will be held at the Common House in Arcadia, located at 134 Circadian Way, Chapel Hill, on Friday, November 8 at 2 PM. Attendees are encouraged to carpool if possible. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to an environmental nonprofit of your choice.
