James E. Miles

James Edward Miles, Sr., affectionately known as "Miles," passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at the age of 87. Miles was surrounded by his loving family. Born on April 5, 1937, in Pittsburgh, PA, Miles was a man whose warmth, humor, and love for life left an unforgettable mark on everyone he met.
Miles grew up in the Hill District, a vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood that shaped his spirit. From the bustling streets of his youth, he carried a deep sense of community, creativity, and resilience. For over 40 years, he made his home on Paulson Avenue on Pittsburgh's east side, filling it with laughter, music, and memories.
He was known simply as "Miles," a name that perfectly captured his vibrant personality. Miles had a knack for turning everyday moments into stories worth telling. Whether he was sharing a joke, recounting history, or singing along to his favorite songs, his presence made every space a little brighter.
In 1957, Miles joined the U.S. Navy and served aboard the USS Salem with the 6th Fleet in the Mediterranean. Those years expanded his world and gave him a love for new experiences and cultures. He shared those lessons with him through his stories and conversations.
After returning home, Miles began a 33-year career as a Psychiatric Nursing Assistant at the VA Hospital. He approached his work with compassion, patience, and dedication, leaving a lasting impression on his coworkers and the veterans he cared for.
Never one to stay idle, Miles brought his energy and charisma to bartending, working at bars all over Pittsburgh. Whether he was behind the counter at Cheers, Daddy B's, Where It's At, or another neighborhood spot, Miles wasn't just serving drinks-he was sharing laughter, advice, and friendship. Patrons didn't just leave with a drink; they left with a story or a smile.
Music was the rhythm of Miles's life. His love for soulful artists like Sam Cooke and Ray Charles brought joy to his days and comfort to those around him. If you want to feel his spirit, play Sam Cooke's "A Change Is Gonna Come." Picture Miles sitting back, tipping his signature-brimmed hat, cigar in hand, tapping his foot to the melody, and singing with that unmistakable passion.
A lifelong Pittsburgh Steelers fan, sports enthusiast, and a master storyteller, Miles could turn history and personal experiences into tales so vivid they felt like time travel. His home was a living archive filled with cherished photos, newspaper clippings, and keepsakes celebrating his family and history.
After retiring, Miles embraced his most treasured role: caregiver to his youngest grandchild. Their bond was extraordinary, reflecting the love and devotion that defined his life.
Miles's humor, wisdom, and boundless love left a legacy. He faced every challenge with courage and grace, teaching his family the values of loyalty, kindness, and perseverance.
His lessons will echo in the lives of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren for generations to come.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Aleese Miles; his sisters, Nellie Miles, Cora Miles, and Frances Young; his brother, Floyd Miles; his niece, Octavia Page; his nephew, Phillip Young, Sr.; and his beloved partner of 51 years, Marcia G. Mockabee.
Miles's children survive him: James E. Miles Jr. (partner Robert), John Miles, Keith Miles (wife Adrienne), LaVonne Hall (husband Ameen), and Lamar Miles (wife Shatica). He is also survived by his niece, Pamela Young-Gobble; great-niece, Alesia Elkins; great-nephew, Phillip Young, Jr.; and first cousin, Henrietta Miles-Price.
His legacy continues through his eleven grandchildren: Richard Raglin, Kirsten Raglin, Sulaymaan Miles, Janel Miles, Kashiff Miles (wife Rochelle), Khalil Miles, Maceo Davis, Brendan Blair, Shaterra Miles, Trevon Blair, and Marraina Miles; as well as twenty great-grandchildren. He will also be forever remembered by James Malloy III, who cared for him with unmatched love and dedication.
Whether you knew him as Dad, Granddad, Mr. Big Stuff, or simply Miles, you knew his heart. He shared his joy freely, his laughter loudly, and his stories boldly. His memory is a melody that will forever play in the hearts of all who loved him.
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