Miles Shopfner

Miles Richard Shopfner passed away peacefully on April 18, 2026, under the remarkable care of Hospice of West Alabama, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and quiet strength. He was a cherished individual whose presence brought comfort and joy to those who knew him.

Miles was known for his unwavering work ethic and his commitment to the people and pursuits he cared about most. Miles was born on November 23, 1930, to Bud and Mildred Shopfner in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Although the U.S. Navy as well as many career pursuits, would take him away from “The Fort,” he always had a longing to return and start a family. In December of 1963 he married the love of his life, Joyce Hightower, and embarked on an adventurous-filled life. In 1967 he welcomed a bouncing baby girl, Sherrard Lane, another step that would change his life forever. Miles settled in as an employee of the Fort Smith Public Schools, holding many different positions before retiring in 1994.

After retirement, he enjoyed the game of golf, playing every chance he got, hitting the courses wherever his travels took him. Shortly after retiring, he would also assume the most important role of his life, becoming a grandpa and forever being known as “Papa Miles”.

He is survived by his loving wife, Joyce; his daughter, Sherrard (David Schafer); his cherished grandchildren, Katie, Keegan & Jennifer Schafer, and Kendall & Hunter Burton; and his beloved great-grandchildren, Max, Braxton, Daniel, Hazel, Eden, and Lillie Jane. Beyond his accomplishments, Miles will be remembered for the simple moments he shared with family and friends—his laughter, his stories, and the warmth he brought into every room. He valued time spent with loved ones and created lasting memories that will continue to be treasured.

One time, Sherrard asked her dad about his relationship with Jesus, as she wanted to make sure that she knew her dad's testimony of the most important decision in his life. Her dad answered that question just as simply as the life he lived; he said, “Jesus is my friend, that he knew Jesus as his Savior, Jesus knew him, and when he died, he would spend eternity with HIM.”

Funeral arrangements will be handled by Sunset Funeral Home, Northport, Alabama. Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m., with a graveside service to follow at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.

A life well lived, Miles will be deeply missed and forever remembered.