A graveside service will be held at 11:00am on Tuesday, May 11, 2021 at Springfield Baptist Church in Morton.
He was born on February 26, 1933 in Polkville, Mississippi to the late Clifton Henry Miles and Hattie Mae Arender Miles. He was inducted into the Mississippi School for the Deaf sports hall of fame for his outstanding high school athletic career. His love for sports continued through many nights spent cheering on Ole Miss and the Atlanta Braves over the years. Most of all, he loved Jesus and his family. He wanted to be together with them all the time that he could and valued every moment they shared together. They fondly recall so many precious memories, including enjoying some of his delicious fried chicken. He was always talking about how proud he was of his grandkids and great-grandkids. Any time he was able to be there, whether attending events or just a casual visit, he never hesitated.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jack Miles; sister, Rodean Earls; and brother, Robert O'Neal Miles.
Willard is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Joyce Murphy Miles; son, Larry Miles (Tammy); daughter, Jeanette Strong; grandchildren, Tommy Strong, Ruben Miles (Delia), and Kayla Miles Saxton (Cody); great-grandchildren, Meredith Miles and Miles Saxton; brother, Jimmy Dale Miles (Diane); brother-in-law, Terry Murphy (Karen); sister-in-laws, Mary Miles and Sherry Hodge (Larry); and numerous beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and close friends.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to The Gideons International at www.gideons.org/donate
