Miles Christian, 88
Born August 27, 1917 in Viola, he was the son of Doyle and Kate Christian. He graduated with honors from McMinnville Central High School where he was a member of the football and basketball teams. He attended Castle Heights Military Academy before entering Cumberland University, graduating in 1940 with a degree in chemistry and social science.
In 1941, he entered the U.S. Navy. He served aboard a combat troop transport ship in the South Pacific, the USS during WWII. He was discharged in 1945 as a lieutenant commander having moved up the ranks from Ensign.
In 1942, he married his first wife, Emeline Fate and remained married until her death in 1987. He married Fran Rupp in 1989 and they remained married until her death in September 2005.
Throughout the years, he served in various capacities with several organizations. These included PTA, American Legion, Junior Chamber of Commerce, and Mansfield Art Center.
He is survived by a son, Miles Fate Christian; a stepdaughter whom he raised, Penny Knight; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Vaughn Christian of Tennessee, and Buck Christian of Lake Placid, Fla. He was also preceded in death by his parents, two wives, and stepson whom he raised, Toby Simmons.
Memorial services were held Dec. 10 at the Ontario Home of Wappner Funeral Directors with military honors immediately following the service at the funeral home. Contributions in his memory may be made to Richland County Foundation, American Cancer Society, or any Alzheimer’s Support Group.
Southern Standard
(McMinnville, Tenn.) Jan. 4, 2006