Russell Daniel Miles

Russell Daniel Miles, age 90, born May 5, 1928 in Arrington, VA. (Nelson County) to the late Walter R. Miles and Pauline Emma Jefferson Miles. He was the middle child of three, Richard M. Miles (deceased) and Mrs. Henrietta L. Price.

He joined New Mount Baptist Church at a very young age. While residing with his grandmother he often took on adult chores around the house and farm at the age of 14. Russell was educated in the Nelson County School system graduating from Nelson County Training High School in Shipman. VA in 1945 and soon relocated from Arrington, VA to Washington, DC.

After several years he was united in holy matrimony with Lillie B. Reynolds in June 1948 and to this union three children were born, Wanda A. (deceased), Jeanne O, and Russelline D. Miles.

Through the years 1945-1961 Russell worked for Sears & Roebucks Co. and was very proud of his awards and accomplishments. He started in the real estate business in the mid-60s and later became the first black sales manager for Mickey Realty Co. He later worked as a correctional officer at DC Correctional Facility in Lorton, VA. He loved the job at the prison and later transferred from Lorton to the Department of Administrative Services for the DC Govt. as a real estate specialist. He later became Chief of In-Leasing division. And was recognized as “Employee of the Year” on multiple occasions. He retired from the DC Govt. in 1992. He continued selling real estate in the public arena for another 20 years.

Russell was a proud and last member of a gentlemen’s club called the “Adventurous Eight” that included several of his closest friends. He was affectionately known as the “Father and Grandfather of many of the children in the Fort Totten neighborhood. Many he didn’t recognize as they grew up so quickly. Russell and Lillie’s home was always open to anyone who needed a place to stay or a helping hand.

Russell is survived by his daughters, Jeanne (Filbert) Ward, Russelline D, Olivia C Miles. Sister Mrs. Henrietta Price. Two adopted daughters Frieda Hunter and Augustine Greene Smith. Grandsons Antwine Teagle, David Ward, grand-daughters Dawn and Danielle Ward, Christine Miles and 10 great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

Russell was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Mrs. Lillie B. Miles; daughter, Wanda A. Miles and granddaughter, Jessica M. Ward.

As he always said, “BE GOOD”.

The Family