Beth Miles

It is with great sadness that the family of Beth Miles announces her sudden passing on Monday, September 27 at the age of 57.

Beth Ann Miles, a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a fierce friend.

There is no light that could shine brighter than hers and to be loved by Beth was fierce, unwavering and eternal.

She was born in Greenville Ohio on August 01, 1964. Growing up in New Paris, Ohio she found joy in nature exploration and using her imagination, something that would never change. She graduated from National trail in 1982. She was an athlete, track and field her specialty. She was an artist, a poet and a musician. She received an Associates Degree in Architecture from Montgomery County Joint Vocational school.

Many of you know how Beth met Jack but to make it short and sweet Jack pursued her and finally persuaded her on a date with Van Halen tickets. Like they sang best, “Might as well Jump” and that’s what they did. Married on the longest day of summer, June 21, 1986, they would love one another for 35 glorious years. Beth’s two children Cameron and Courtney took her into the greatest and most joy filled adventure yet. She was the first to volunteer for a school field trip and always willing to put those extra miles on her mini-van and long hours to make her kids happy. She had a passion for the youth and that led her to many extracurriculars like DJ-ing school dances, Assistant directing the drama program and coaching track and cross country at Northeastern ranging from Jr. High to Varsity for many years. She also dedicated a lot of time with the youth at Williamsburg Nazarene church.  She knew that not all kids had it easy growing up and her goal was show unconditional love to all and help in any way she could. She would often pay for school lunches or pass a few dollars to a kid she knew wasn’t in a great situation.

Life continues whether we are ready or not and her kids grew up and started making lives for themselves. Emily and Jansen are kids she didn’t birth but loved as her own. the kids grew up and left home and she started to imagine a new dream one where her creativity could blossom and her imagination could run free. The White Rabbit, a shop filled with curiosities and beautiful things was born.  Of course, with Jack by her side, they set out on a new adventure. Is it a surprise to anyone here that it was a great success? Beth was in her element. She absolutely glowed the last few years and was so happy.

It seems unfair such a bright light was extinguished so soon. But truly we don’t believe someone with 100 years could make quite the impact or shine as bright as she did with the time she had. She had a grateful heart, loved God, her family and all who crossed her path. She wouldn’t want you to linger on the sadness. One of her favorite movies, Big Fish, shows at the end of one’s life all who loved the main character gathered. There were no tears and only smiles. She is the rainbow after a storm. The wildflower amongst the weeds. She is all that is beautiful and good in the world. Be kind, never stop dreaming, and don’t wait to do what makes you happy.

Beth leaves to cherish her memory her husband of 35 years, Jack, children, Cameron (Emily), Courtney (Jansen); sister Debbie (Dick) Davies and their children, Josh Davies, Micah Davies; niece, Candace (Jeff) Yount; mother-in-law, Patricia Miles; brothers-in-law, Mike (Dorothy) Miles and their daughter, Sarah; Steve Miles; Bill (Wendy) Miles and their sons Christopher, Brandon, and Nick.

Beth was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin and Patricia Petry; and father-in-law, Jack Miles.

A memorial visitation for Beth will be held from 2:30 – 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 6, at the Smith-McQuiston & Webster Funeral Home, 321 US 27 South, Fountain City. A memorial celebration will begin at 5:30-ish.

Memorial contributions are encouraged for The Veterans Healing Farm, 19 Mahshie Lane, Henderson, NC 28739 or online at veteranshealingfarm.org .