Luther Jerral Miles

Luther Jerral Miles, a beloved educator, adventurer, and family man, passed away on October 12, 2024, at the age of 89. He is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Margaret Martin Miles, daughter Nancy, son David, and son-in-law David Higgins. He also leaves behind his siblings Jacqueline Dean of Covington, LA, Helen Buford of Concord Township, OH, Alice Epperson of Granite Bay, CA, James Miles of Hampton Bays, NY, and William Miles of Corvallis, OR.

Born on September 12, 1935, in Blakeley, Arkansas, Luther Jerral grew up in the close-knit Ouachita mountain community of Glenwood. As the eldest son of Luther Clarence Miles and Pearlie Lois Inlow Miles, he learned early lessons of faith, responsibility, and leadership that guided him throughout his life. At just 10 years old, his father entrusted him to lead a pack of mules to a logging camp, a testament to his early maturity and reliability. In his teens, the Miles family moved to Live Oak, California, where Jerral quickly adapted to his new surroundings. He balanced his studies with work, first as a grocery store bag boy and later picking fruit in the orchards during summer months. His leadership qualities shone through as he became the Drum Major of the Live Oak High School Band and participated in school plays. It was during his high school years that he met Margaret Martin, beginning a partnership that would span seven decades.

Jerral's career in education began after he earned a bachelor's degree from Chico State College. He started as an English teacher at Yuba City High School, eventually becoming the head of the English Department. His passion for education and adventure led him and his family to Singapore in 1969, where he taught at the American School for four years. This experience broadened his worldview and ignited a lifelong love for travel and cultural exploration.

Throughout his career, Jerral served as a headmaster at several prestigious institutions, including the Potomac School in Virginia, the Lynn Oaks School in Louisiana, the Darrow School in New York, and The Francis Parker School in San Diego. He concluded his professional journey where it began, as a teacher, this time at Gompers Middle School in San Diego, retiring in 2002.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jerral was an avid traveler, photographer, and cyclist. He and Margaret explored every corner of the world, often on cruise ships, capturing moments through his camera lens. His passion for photography led to a daily practice of taking and sharing photos culminating in his blog "The Way I See It" which reached hundreds of people. Jerral's love for cycling took him on memorable adventures including a ride along the Pacific Coast Highway from Vancouver to Tijuana and, at age 65, a cross-country journey from Seattle to Annapolis with three friends.

In retirement Jerral continued to engage with his community volunteering at U.S. citizenship ceremonies where he offered to photograph new citizens capturing their proud moments as they began their American journey. For many years, he volunteered at the Museum of Photographic Arts (currently SDMA@MOPA) located in San Diego’s Balboa Park.

In his own words “Life is short... I am determined to know the world as well as possible and to leave no burden on others as I travel through it.” Jerral’s life was characterized by a thirst for knowledge, a passion for education, and a deep appreciation for the diverse tapestry of human experience. He touched countless lives as a teacher, mentor, friend, and family man, leaving behind a legacy of curiosity, compassion, and unwavering faith.

In 2016, Jerral and Margaret moved to Paradise Village, a retirement community in National City, CA, where he spent his final years surrounded by love and cherished memories. His life serves as an inspiration to all who knew him, reminding us to embrace adventure, nurture our passions, and always strive to see the world through fresh eyes.

All are welcome to attend a memorial service for Luther Jerral Miles that will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, November 23, 2024 at the First United Methodist Church, 2111 Camino del Rio S, San Diego, CA 92108. An inurnment ceremony and reception will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in remembrance of Luther Jerral Miles to the San Diego Museum of Art at https://sdma.ticketapp.org/portal/product/142 . Your gift will support MOPA@SDMA’s student photography programs.