William Myles

My High School football coach a great coach, motivator, and deep religious
servant of God was buried on Wednesday May 20th.
Coach William “Bill” Myles in our team meetings before each game would conclude stating “ Team remember, it’s always darkest before the dawn”
I always thought about this profound uplifting statement.

Coach Myles was referring to John 1:5

John 1:5 (KJV)

5And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

In John, Jesus' light came during a dark time, according to verse 5.

Coach Myles was telling us Any uncertainty in our team’s thoughts about winning the game, or our team’s fears of losing the game would come when the light overcomes darkness and the light of the dawn appears.

Coach Myles was exactly right our 1971 team overcame that darkness to win in the light of dawn eight of nine games that season.

Thank you Coach.

Time sure flies. I met Coach Myles when I was in junior High school in about 1968 when I was in eighth grade at Southeast Junior High School. He was a varsity football coach at Southeast Senior high school at the time or about to begin coaching there. I had an uncle who was a close friend of Coach Myles, William Burgette, who eventually coached also at the school. I remember Coach Myles as a hard task master who expected great loyalty and excellence from those he coached but also as a gentle soul who was kind and generous, especially during his later years. A few years ago after writing his autobiography he came to Kansas City to promote the book. I bought 3 copies and he signed each. He had an excellent memory and remembered when I played on his high school team. I am glad and thankful to have known Coach Myles. I will never forget him. God speed Coach. Take your rest.

I often meet people during difficult times. Coach Myles showed his strength of character while working on his own health. And he was always looking for ways to help others. I was honored to get to work with him.

Coach Myles was a true father figure to me and will miss seeing him from time to time at Buckeye events or Otha Watson fish frys. I will always cherish the influence he has been in my life. "HAT em UP"!
Prayers and Condolences to the Myles Family!

Love and Best Wishes Always, Kelvin A. Bell Sr.