Apple Industry Loses Visionary Orchardist and Champion in Henry Chiles

Henry Montague Chiles, a widely respected Virginia orchardist, agricultural entrepreneur, and industry leader, passed away peacefully at his home in Batesville, VA, on July 18. He was 90.

A lifelong advocate for fruit growing and rural enterprise, Chiles helped shape Virginia’s apple and peach industries over more than seven decades. Born in Charlottesville, VA, on Nov. 20, 1935, he developed a passion for agriculture while working alongside his father in the family orchards. After attending Hampden-Sydney College and serving in the U.S. Army, he returned home following his father’s death to help lead the family orchard business.

Working from the foundation established by earlier generations, Chiles expanded Crown Orchard Co. into one of the largest orchards in Virginia. As a grower, packer, shipper, and exporter, Chiles helped bring recognition domestically and internationally to the Virginia fruit industry. Locally, he and wife Ruth developed Carter Mountain Orchard and Chiles Peach Orchard into some of Virginia’s most recognized direct-to-consumer agricultural enterprises.

His influence extended far beyond his own orchards. Over the years, Chiles served in leadership roles with numerous agricultural and community organizations, including the Virginia State Horticultural Society, National Peach Council, USApple, and the U.S. Apple Export Council. He also served on the board of the Central Virginia Electric Cooperative for 46 years, becoming its longest-serving board member.

Chiles received numerous honors throughout his career in recognition of his contributions to agriculture.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Chiles was known throughout the industry for his integrity, optimism, and enduring belief in the value of personal relationships. Whether negotiating business agreements with a handshake, mentoring fellow growers, or cultivating friendships across the industry, he left a lasting impression on those who worked alongside him. There was no problem he didn’t love to solve.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Ruth Dollens Chiles, and is survived by his children, Cynthia Chiles (husband Charlie Touchette), Huff Chiles (wife Judy Chiles), and Sarah Chiles; three grandchildren; four great-granddaughters; and numerous extended family members and longtime employees who continue to shape the family’s agricultural legacy.

For more information, check out the full obituary for Henry Chiles at legacy.com.