Eugene Miles, Jr.

Eugene Lester Miles was born September 18, 1925 in Brazoria, Texas, the son of Eugene “Buck” and Lottie Moore Miles.  He went to be with his Savior and wife on October 3, 2020.  Although Lester was the only child of Buck and Lottie, his parents accepted the responsibility of raising their younger brothers, sisters, and a nephew which surrounded Lester with “sibling” companionship throughout his youth.  At an early age Lester became a genuine cowboy riding horseback and working cattle on the family ranch from 1942 until 2011.  He enjoyed sharing many stories with family and friends about that period in his life.  In April 1943, he was employed at the Ethyl Dow chemical plant in Freeport, Texas.  However, five months later, Lester enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard to serve his country during World War II.  He was part of that “Great Generation” that didn’t question if they should serve but rather stepped forward to keep their country free.  His tour of duty was from September 15, 1943 to April 12, 1946, serving aboard the U.S.S. Arthur Middleton and making six invasions in the South Pacific including two in the Philippines, two in Ryukyu, one in Okinawa and one in Luzon.  After being honorably discharged in 1946, he returned to work for Ethyl Dow where he worked as a carpenter until 1969.  After leaving Ethyl Dow, Lester joined Phillips Petroleum Company, Sweeny Complex, and was a machinist until his retirement on July 1, 1985.

Lester was a member of the Brazoria Masonic Lodge #327 and became a Master Mason, December 22, 1953.  In September 2003, Lester received his 50 year service award as a Master Mason.  He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Brazoria.

Lester was preceded in death by his parents, a stillborn daughter, and his wife of 62 years, Mary Lois Pinson Miles.  He is survived by his son Herbert “Sonny” Miles (Linda) of Lake Jackson, Texas and granddaughter Kathryn Miles of Austin, Texas.

Those who knew Lester would attest that he never met a stranger.  He loved people and enjoyed getting to know them and talking about days gone by.  To his son, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter he will be remembered as a truly good and honest man of the highest integrity.  He was a supportive father, grandfather, and a true model of a life well lived.  Although he will be missed, we rejoice in the reunion that he is now enjoying with family and friends.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 am Friday, October 9, 2020 at C. T. Baker & Sons Funeral Home in West Columbia.  The family requests, because of COVID-19, that masks be worn.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Lester’s name to the First United Methodist Church, PO Box 9, Brazoria, Texas 77422.