Dr. Otha Myles

Reflections of His Journey

Dr. Otha Myles, a son, brother, uncle, father, husband, friend, and medical doctor, passed away October 18, 2023, in his home in Wildwood, Missouri. He was born on August 7, 1968, in Hayti, Missouri, to Jesse and Lemella Myles as the fourteenth of their sixteen children. He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Carol Ann; and two brothers, Nathan and David. He leaves behind a legacy of love and service, epitomized by his kindness, contributions to the medical field, and the patients and community organizations he served.

Raised in a close-knit family, Dr. Myles’ journey of faith began at a young age, accepting Christ and attending the Church of God in Christ in Homestown, Missouri.  He was inspired by his mother's compassionate care for the sick in their church community. This early exposure sparked his interest in medicine, which he pursued with unyielding determination. After graduating from North Pemiscot Senior High School in 1986, Dr. Myles attended Howard University, earning a degree in Physician Assistant in 1990. He simultaneously served as a U.S. Army Reserve Soldier and participated in the university's ROTC program. He then furthered his studies at the University of Maryland School of Medicine where he received the Army's Health Profession Scholarship, graduating in 1998.

Dr. Myles' career was as illustrious as it was impactful. He served at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where he became a leading researcher on HIV. His work took him across the globe, from the U.S. to Kenya, Thailand, and Europe. He was instrumental in establishing laboratories in remote areas, training local doctors, and initiating public education and prevention programs. His invaluable contribution to the military earned him numerous awards, including a Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.

Dr. Myles was equally dedicated to nurturing the next generation and uplifting others. In 2022, he received the University of Maryland’s Medical Alumni Association Distinguished Service Award for his support of the Donald E. Wilson Scholarship Fund. An active member of the prestigious Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., he served on the Epsilon Lambda Charitable Foundation Board of Directors, received the William Alexander Award in 2019 for outstanding community service, and led Brother 2 Brother / Project Alpha events at local St. Louis schools.

Dr. Myles was also a devoted family man. His love for his daughters, Lemella and Haley, was boundless, and he cherished his wife, Dr. April Tyus-Myles, with whom he shared five wonderful years of marriage. Together, the medical duo enjoyed exploring new places, attending concerts, and supporting local charities. Their shared passion for service saw them co-chair the Doorways Housing RED Gala in 2020 and 2021.

Dr. Myles' life was a beacon of kindness, service, and unwavering dedication to his family and profession. He will be profoundly missed by his beloved wife, Dr. April Tyus-Myles; his beautiful daughters, Lemella and Haley; his brothers Willie Lee (Betty), Jesse Lee, Earnest, and Charlie; his sisters Judy (James) Ford, Jessie Samuel, Ora Strain, Alice Faye (James) Smith, Yevonne Hogan, Earnestine (Vaughn) Cole, Linda Bays, and Camilla Myles; along with a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who will cherish his memory.

May Dr. Myles' legacy continue to inspire and guide all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

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