Greg Iles, the renowned author of the acclaimed “Natchez Burning” trilogy, has passed away at the age of 65. He died on August 15, 2023, around 5 a.m. local time, as confirmed by his literary agent, Dan Conaway, on social media the following day. Iles, a resident of Natchez, Mississippi, had been battling multiple myeloma, a type of incurable blood cancer.
Born in Germany in 1960, Iles spent much of his youth in Mississippi. He graduated from the University of Mississippi in 1983 and went on to become a best-selling author, with novels exploring themes of politics, legacy, and racism in the American South. His works often fell within the thriller and Southern Gothic genres and have garnered a global audience. Some of his stories have even been adapted into films.
Legacy of a Literary Giant
Iles is best known for the “Natchez Burning” trilogy, which consists of Natchez Burning, The Bone Tree, and Mississippi Blood. He referred to these novels as his “magnum opus.” The trilogy is part of the broader Penn Cage series, which includes seven novels and a novella. Iles also wrote several other thrillers that captivated readers worldwide.
In addition to his writing career, Iles was a member of the Rock Bottom Remainders, a charitable rock band comprising authors, including Stephen King, Amy Tan, and Dave Barry. This eclectic group raised funds for literacy programs while sharing their passion for music.
A Battle with Cancer
Iles was diagnosed with multiple myeloma at the age of 36 in 1996. He faced numerous challenges during his health journey, including nearly dying from an experimental treatment. In a health update on his website, he expressed that he chose to keep his illness private while continuing his writing career. Iles noted that he experienced anxiety due to his condition but considered himself fortunate to live over two decades without terminal progression.
Describing his illness, Iles mentioned that it “switched on” in recent years, nearly claiming his life before he recognized the severity of his situation. Advances in treatment over the years allowed him to push through and complete his final novel, Southern Man, before undergoing a stem cell transplant. He underwent the procedure after finishing the book, which is set to be published in 2024.
In reflecting on his journey, Iles stated, “the connection that always existed between Penn Cage and myself became even deeper,” as his character grappled with themes of mortality and existentialism, mirroring his own struggles. He concluded his health update by emphasizing the importance of family and friends, stating, “only two things matter.”
Greg Iles leaves behind a rich literary legacy that will continue to resonate within the literary community and among readers around the world. His contributions to literature, particularly in exploring the complexities of Southern life, will be remembered and cherished.