James E. Miles

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, dear friend, educator extraordinaire, Jim Miles of Fairport, NY passed while vacationing in Deerfield Beach on February 17th, 2024.  Born April 21, 1942 in Albion, NY.  In his pursuit of education Jim began working at The Santa Claus School in Albion.  He went onto the University of Albany where he earned his BS in accounting.  He quickly realized his true calling was to teach children.  So, he attended the University of Rochester and received his MA in counseling.  Quickly following was his administrative degree in education from the State University of Brockport.  During his time at the U of R, he met and fell in love with the love of his life, Kathy Vinci.

Jim was called to serve in the Army National Guard where he served for 6 years.  He started his career in teaching and stayed for 33 years in public education at Pittsford Sutherland High School.  Over the years students often referred to Mr. Miles as, “Gentleman Jim” because he was so respectful and kind to all who walked into his classroom.  He created and developed “The Wegmans Program” which taught students the grocery business while giving practical experience.  In 2000, Jim was awarded the distinct honor, National Business Education Association’s Teacher of the Year.”  During that time he taught undergraduate and graduate classes at Monroe Community College and Nazareth University. Jim authored 3 high school textbooks for business and computing classes.  His love of education continued after he retired from Pittsford.   Jim went to work for ICLE, International Center for Leadership in Education, as a senior consultant.  He traveled throughout the United States to train teachers and assist schools for 16 years.  Former students and colleagues have referred to Jim as “,a legend in education” and left a lifelong impression on anyone whom he met.

Jim had many passions besides education.  He was a devoted husband to his wife, Kathy, for 57 years.  In addition, he adored his daughter, Jenn, and his grandchildren, Finn and Emilene.  A little known fact was he collected Santa Clauses (which stemmed from his childhood).  Come Christmas time he would decorate his entire home with them, all 600 Santa’s.  Jim enjoyed gardening and his whole neighborhood appreciated his floral talents.

Jim Miles leaves his brother, Jack Miles and sister, Debbie Pahura of Albion, NY. as well as his special Aunt Jane McCormick, many nieces, nephews, and family members whom he dearly cared for.  Jim was a loving husband, father, grandfather, friend, and neighbor who will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Celebration of Life will be on March 9, 2024 at St. Louis Church at 11:00 am, 64 South Main Street, Pittsford, NY.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a place close to Jim’s heart, Nazareth Elementary School at 311 Flower City Park, Rochester, NY 14615.