James G. Miles

James George Miles, a devoted family man and proud Marine, peacefully passed away on July 2, 2026, at St. John's Hospital in Yonkers, NY, after a brief illness. Born on August 8, 1942, in Carbondale, Pennsylvania, James's journey through life was marked by love, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to his family and community.

Raised by his loving parents, George and Frances Miles, James grew up with a strong sense of duty and compassion which remained with him throughout his life. He graduated from St. Rose High School in Carbondale in 1960, shortly before embarking on his service with the United States Marine Corps. From 1960 to 1964, James served with honor aboard aircraft carriers and at various military bases around the world, including Japan, Italy, and France. His time in the Marines instilled in him the values of honor, loyalty, and resilience—principles he carried into every aspect of his life.

In the late 1960s, James met the love of his life, Rebecca, in New Jersey. Their love story blossomed in the Bronx, where they lived for many years before settling in Yonkers in the late 1980s. Together, they built a life filled with love and companionship, spanning 52 years of marriage until Rebecca's passing in 2017. James's devotion to Rebecca was unwavering, especially during her battle with Alzheimer's disease, where his compassionate care was a testament to his strength and character.

James's professional life was spent as a dedicated fireman at P.S. 55 in the Bronx, NY, where he worked tirelessly for over three decades until his retirement in 1998. He was responsible for boiler operations, ensuring the school was warm and functional, a role he performed with the same diligence and commitment he brought to every task.

A passionate sports fan, James had a special affinity for the Boston Celtics, Detroit Lions, and Los Angeles Dodgers. Yet, his heart truly belonged to the Penn State Nittany Lions, whose games he followed with fervor and enthusiasm.

James was predeceased by his beloved wife, Rebecca; his sister, Anne; and his sons, Theodore and Jimmy, as well as his daughter-in-law, Denise. He leaves behind a legacy of love and strength, survived by his sons Francis, Kenneth, Demetrius, Ron, Milton, and Jamal, and his daughters Audrey, Lorraine, and Naja. He is also survived by his sons-in-laws, daughters-in-laws, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, and a wide circle of friends who cherished him dearly.

James's family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at St. John's Hospital for the compassionate care provided in his final days. The Family would like to extend their thanks to the United States Marine Corps for honoring James's service and to Whalen and Ball Funeral Home for their support during this difficult time.

James George Miles will forever be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend. His kindness, generosity, and sense of humor made him a true original—a man whose life was defined by honor, loyalty, and unwavering dedication to those he loved.

Memorial Visiting Hours will be held at Whalen & Ball Funeral Home, 168 Park Ave, Yonkers, NY 10703 on Tuesday July 14, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

A Memorial Service will take place at Whalen & Ball Funeral Home on Tuesday July 14, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 5:20 pm, followed by Military Honors at the same location from 5:20 pm to 5:30 pm.

Final Disposition is private.