Muriel Olive Miles

June 7, 1941 - January 31, 2020

On June 7, 1941 in Charles City, VA, Muriel O. Miles was the seventh of eight children born to the late Beverly S. Miles and Emma C. Miles. Muriel was educated in the public schools of Charles City County graduating from Ruthville High School in 1958. She furthered her education at Virginia State College (now Virginia State University) where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in 1962, majoring in Home Economics. At an early age, Muriel confessed Christ and joined New Vine Baptist Church. She served faithfully in various ministries. After more than thirty years of singing in the senior choir, she was named an honorary member of the choir for her faithful service. Muriel also served on the church's scholarship and women's day committees for numerous years. The New Vine Church family was an integral and important part of her life. She continuously demonstrated support to her church family—and her devotion to God—until illness prevented her from doing so. Muriel taught Home Economics in Charles City County Schools for twenty-five years before retiring in 1991. She was actively involved in a number of organizations including the Virginia State University Alumni Association (VSUAA) - Charles City Chapter and the Charles City/New Kent Retired Teachers Association. Muriel was also a lifetime member of the Charles City Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Muriel took delight in her family and was generous in providing for them. The consummate hostess, she shared in hosting many gatherings—especially during the holidays—that were anticipated and enjoyed by relatives and friends. There was always an abundance of delicious food and entertaining conversation. Possessing a heightened civic and community conscience, Muriel involved herself in civic activities when possible and supported many causes on the local and national level. Notably, one of those causes was the National Museum of African American History and Culture located in Washington, DC. In addition to her parents and a devoted friend, Walter Wallace, she was predeceased by her brothers: Alvin, Rudolph, Bernard, Curtis and Donald. She is survived by sisters, Janet Miles of Charles City, VA and Marie Russell (Ronald) of Chesterfield County, VA; sisters-in-law: Laura Miles of Varina, VA and Goldie Malloy of Hampton, VA; a host of nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends including a life-long cherished friend, Alice Johnson. After a life well-spent, she transitioned to be with the Lord on Friday, January 31, 2020. A funeral service will be held 2PM Thursday February 6th at Gilfield Baptist Church, 6640 Church Ln, Charles City VA. The family will receive friends from 6-8pm Wednesday at Vincent Funeral Home, 9923 Pocahontas Trail, Providence Forge, VA 23140.