NORFOLK—There was something special about Tom—he could walk into a room full of strangers and leave with friends.
U.S. Coast Guard Captain Alfred Thomas Miles (retired), 90, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2026, at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.
Tom, or “Tommy” as he was known to many, was born on February 10, 1936, in Willis Wharf, to the late Edgar Downing Miles and Flora Parks Miles. He graduated from Northampton High School and briefly attended Virginia Tech before answering the call to serve, joining the United States Coast Guard in September of 1954. In 1956, he married the girl from the other end of the street, Juanita Bowen, beginning a lifelong love story that spanned nearly seven decades.
Tom devoted almost 32 years to the Coast Guard, faithfully serving his country while moving his family to duty stations in Virginia, Mississippi, Alaska, Puerto Rico and beyond. His service included a tour in Vietnam during the war. He retired in 1986 with the rank of captain.
Following his retirement, Tom and his beloved “Nene” spent 32 wonderful years in their dream home on the Great Wicomico River in the Northern Neck. In the last four years, they returned to Tom’s favorite city, Norfolk.
Tom found great joy in life’s simple pleasures—reading, socializing and spending time on the water aboard his boats. He especially cherished time with his faithful companion, Gable, his Dalmatian, and most of all, the moments shared with his family.
In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his brother, Butch; and his sister, Debbie.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 69 years, Juanita Bowen Miles; his sister, Martha Kilmon; his children, Dianna Clyburn (John), Tammy Pickelhaupt (John-John) and Alfred Thomas “A.T.” Miles Jr. (Christy); his ten grandchildren, Tom, Shannon, Matt, Erich, Julie, Emily, Breanna, Michael, Matthew and Christopher; 11 great-grandchildren; and many dearly loved nieces, nephews and cousins.
A graveside service with military honors was held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 22, at Belle Haven Cemetery, with Rev. Dr. Charles Peterson officiating.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be sent to your local animal shelter or rescue.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.doughtyfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements made by Doughty Funeral Home in Exmore.
