Myles, Reuben, 1910-1982
Biographical Statement
Reuben Myles was born in West Ouachita Parish, Louisiana in 1910. He attended Ouachita Parish public schools and graduated from Mineral Springs High School. Myles then took an extension course from Tuskegee Institute and opened Myles Auto Parts in 1935 in Monroe, Louisiana. He later founded Myles Insurance Agency. He was the first African-American member of the West Monroe Chamber of Commerce. He attended St. Joseph Missionary Baptist Church in Monroe, Louisiana where he was deacon. He married Irma Willis in 1964 and had two children.
Myles became a member of Trinity Lodge No. 175 in Monroe, Louisiana in 1943. He was elected Worshipful Master in 1946 and then appointed District Deputy Grand Master for the 14th district in Louisiana for the Prince Hall fraternity in 1947. He was also involved with the Royal Arch Masons and was appointed Imperial Deputy Oasis of the Ancient Egyptian AONMS and Potentate of Jomadi Temple No. 171. He served in various ways, such as in the purchasing of land for two masonic temples and two churches. He also conducted cornerstone ceremonies throughout northern Louisiana.
He was heavily involved in community development in Ouachita Parish through his role as treasurer for the West Ouachita Industrial Park, membership in the West Ouachita Industrial Development Committee, membership in the Ouachita Community Action Program in addition to his work with Masonic organizations. He received awards and accolades for his work in both the church and the community.
Mr. Myles passed away October 29, 1982.