Janis Melinda Miles

Janis Melinda Miles, age 65, of Portland, died peacefully in her sleep on December 31st, 2019 in her home holding her husbands hand and surrounded by her children and the laughter of her grandchildren. Born April 5th, 1954 in Portland Oregon,  she is preceded in death by her loving parents, Howard and Margaret Cofer, and her older brother Dale.

Janis attended John Adams High School before she met and married Jeffery Miles, her husband of 43 years. They had three children biologically, Rachel, Kevin,  and Michelle, but she had so much love to give it encompassed so many more children, including her adopted sons Tyrone and Paul, and countless foster children. She had many job titles throughout her life, from clerk to DHS worker to accountant,  but none of them were more important to her than the title of mother. Janis also ran an in home daycare where many more children were recipients of the love and light she poured into the lives of others. If there was any child in need of a mother, she became that figure to them and loved them with the same passion as she mothered her own.

Janis was the ultimate sports mom, involved in wrestling, baseball,  softball, football, dance; whatever her children and husband were into, she became a part of it. She was an avid reader, loved singing and dancing, enjoyed music of all genres, and loved to travel. Anywhere warm, especially by the ocean, was her favorite place to be.

Janis is survived by her husband, 5 children, 6 grandchildren,  and many other “kids" and “grandkids" who call her mom and grandma, extended family, and a plethora of friends.

Janis requested not a funeral but a celebration of her life, with music and bright colors and stories about her from those who she touched throughout her life. Celebration of Life will be at Rose City Funeral Home, 5625 NE Fremont St, Friday January 17th at 1pm. There will be a social gathering to continue her Celebration at 3:30pm at Bradford’s 10346 NE Halsey. Food will be provided and drinks are available for a price. As always, children are welcome.