Born in Stanford, Texas on February 6, 1944, to Conley Joseph Miles and Mary Lilljedahl Miles, Roddy Joe Miles, known to nearly everyone as "Pop," lived a life defined by engines, open roads, lake water, laughter, and above all, family.
He attended Bowie Elementary, Jefferson Junior High, and proudly graduated from Abilene High School. Shortly after, he answered the call to serve his country in the United States Air Force, where he served from September 7, 1961 to September 3, 1965 as a jet engine mechanic including service in Vietnam. His time in the military reflected the mechanical skill, resilience, and quiet dedication that would become lifelong trademarks.
Following his service, he spent most of his career with General Dynamics in Abilene, where he not only oversaw maintenance of the aircraft component manufacturing but built lasting friendships. Those friendships often extended beyond the workplace - especially to the lake, where massive camping trips with coworkers and friends became cherished traditions.
Pop loved anything with an engine. As a teenager, he rebuilt engines in his bedroom. That passion carried him through a lifetime of adventure - hill climbing motorcycles, working on cars, and eventually guiding his two sons into short track racing. He didn't just love motors; he loved sharing that love.
He also loved the water. The lakes were one of his favorite places to be. Fishing, skiing, camping, and teaching countless friends and family members how to water ski brought him immense joy. Many will remember his command in the boat, encouraging first-timers to get up on their skis and cheering when they finally did. He would always reflect on these many stories we all knew.
Above all, he loved his family. The nickname "Pop" wasn't just for his children - it was what friends, grandchildren, and even those who had just met him naturally called him. It reflected his steady, welcoming presence and the way he made people feel at home.
Whether through shared projects in the garage, weekends at the lake, or simply being present, he built a legacy of devotion and strength.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Conley Miles and Mary Lilljedahl Miles, and his previous wife, Judy Martin Miles.
He is survived by his wife, Doris; his children, Robert, Joe, Sheri, Taunya, Lee, Eric, Dale, Amber, Billy, and Maranda; his sister, Judy Etheredge; and countless grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will carry his stories, and love forward.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday, Feb 21, 2026, at 2pm, at Pleasant Valley Cemetery, Mays, Texas. Military honors will be rendered and the Patriot Guard Riders will be in attendance. Arrangements are entrusted to Brownwood Funeral Home.