With deep love and remembrance, we celebrate the life and memory of Myles Terrell Wooten, who passed on October 2, 2025, in Oakland, California at the age of 17.

Myles was born on January 4, 2008, in Granite City, Illinois, to his loving parents Mya M. Newbern and Franklin Wooten Jr. From the very beginning, Myles carried a special light -- kindhearted, honest, and loyal -- touching everyone who had the privilege to know him. His smile was infectious, and his sense of humor could brighten even the hardest days.

Myles received his spiritual foundation at St. Elizabeth Spiritual Temple in Lovejoy, Illinois, under the leadership of Pastor C.V. Leflore. His faith was reflected in his compassion, humor, and steady sense of right and wrong.

He attended Prather Elementary School in Granite City, Illinois. Later, Myles and his mother relocated to Oakland, California, where he attended Loadstar High School and Tennyson High School in Hayward, California, where he was looking forward to graduating with the Class of 2026. While in California, Myles participated in youth football with the Eastbay Warriors and practiced karate under the leadership of his Uncle Alex and cousins at Hutchinson Martial Arts. Although sports were never his true passion, he continued to take part because it was a positive outlet and a reflection of his caring and selfless spirit.

Myles had a deep passion for cars and music, and he dreamed of blending both into his future. He truly understood the meaning of "living his best life." Few knew that he had an unreleased record -- a glimpse of his creativity and talent. He was a devoted son, brother, nephew, uncle, and grandson -- a "little guy with a big heart" who laughter filled every room.

Myles was the kind of person who made everyone feel seen and valued. His loyalty ran deep, his energy was magnetic, and his presence unforgettable. He lived boldly, loved deeply, and left behind a legacy of laughter, love, and light that will live on forever.

Myles was preceded in death by his great grandmothers, Effie B. Newbern, Charlene Nelson, and Delores Crawford; grandmother, Frenita Wooten; great grandfathers, Carl Newbern and James Crawford; grandfather, Franklin Wooten, Sr.; uncles, Larrion Davis, Cleodis Williams, and Alexander Hutchinson, and his cousin, Delarrian Davis.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted parents, Mya M. Newbern and Franklin Wooten Jr.; his beloved brothers, Terrence Glover, and Mylan Newbern. He is also lovingly remembered by his aunts, Teryra Wooten, Danyel Baker, Kizmath Hemingway, and Keesha Barrett; great uncles, Travis "Uncle Beaver" Dew and Harvey Nelson; great aunt, Zetter "Z" Wooten. He was also cherished by Rev. Dr. Gerald and Katherine Hemingway, affectionately known as "Granny and Poppee."

Myles had many cousins -- too many to name -- but he loved each one deeply, just as they loved him. He also leaves behind a community of friends and loved ones who affectionately called him "10 Milli,"

He will be lovingly remembered by his precious nieces, Tai'Lynn Glover, Amia Glover, and Alayah Glover, who will forever carry with them his laughter, love, and protective heart.

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."                                                                                          -Psalm 34:18

Though our hearts ache with his absence, we find peace knowing that Myles rests safely in the arms of our Lord -- whole, free, and filled with everlasting light.