Ashley Campbell alleges that her son, Miles Phipps, endured years of bullying, misgendering, and harassment before taking his own life at 15.
Miles was born female but told his parents he wanted to use he/him pronouns this January.
The story of Miles Phipps is a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating consequences of bullying.
He endured years of relentless harassment for being different. He didn’t conform to traditional gender norms, preferring short hair and activities like footbal from a young age.
This led to bullying from both boys and girls who targeted him for not being “girly enough” or “boy enough.” He found a solution to this social pressure, and he came out as transgender, using he/him pronouns.
However, the bullying did not stop but only intensified. He was targeted for being trans, facing threats, public mockery, and cruelty both online and in person.
His mother describes an environment of “senseless hate” from all angles.
So-called “friends” posted videos destroying his belongings, peers harassed him on the bus and in school hallways, and strangers shouted slurs at him from cars.
Miles never fit a mold and I’m glad he never changed himself to make others more comfortable. I loved my child unconditionally. The exterior wrapper that holds his unique soul is meaningless. I loved him, not his gender. As we should love and respect all humans equally.
Ashley Campbell
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A Legacy of Courage and Melody: Miles Phipps’ Light Lives On
Miles Phipps, the son of Rocky Phipps and Ashley Campbell, was born on October 21, 2010, in Urbandale, Iowa.
He was a kind, talented, and creative soul who left this world on November 4, 2025, at the age of 15. He will be forever cherished and deeply missed.
Miles was a student at Johnston Elementary School who was currently attending Urbandale High School. It was at Urbandale High that Miles found a community and a sense of belonging through the GSA Club.
He was a young man of immense drive, creativity, and authenticity. He approached life with a vibrant energy, and sitting still was never his style.
Miles had a profound love for anything with wheels, finding freedom and joy in skateboarding, rollerblading, and biking.
He was a familiar face at the local skate park and took immense pride in having completed RAGBRAI as a cherished member of the Dream Team.
Music was one of his greatest passions, and he could express emotions that words alone could not capture with his guitar. He spent countless hours composing beautiful, unique melodies that reflected his heart and imagination.
Moreover, his creative spirit also found an outlet in the kitchen, where he loved to cook and experiment. He looked forward to Comicon, cosplay, and the freedom to be himself fully.
I am shattered beyond words. Yesterday our baby took his last breath on earth, and will be forever missed. Please join us to help celebrate Miles’ life on Sunday November 9 from 6-8pm with stories, love and a candle light vigil.
Ashley Campbell
Miles was a proud transgender male who navigated the world with remarkable courage, authenticity, and grace, even in the face of adversity.
His beautiful heart revealed itself in the sweetest, often through small, thoughtful gifts he would make or find to brighten someone’s day.
He had a tender love for animals, and his beloved cat, Shevee, meant the world to him.
Miles is survived by his parents, Rocky and Ashley; sister, Aeva; step-mom, Lizzie; step-sister, Soph; grandfather, Troy; aunts, Niki, Angela, Sarah, and Jesseca; and uncles, Brandon, Asa, Dave, and Pat.
He also leaves behind a wide circle of family, friends, and his chosen family within the Dream Team, all of whom will hold his memory, his smile, and his laughter in their hearts forever.
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In his honor, Krysta Gattoni has created a GoFundMe to cover memorial expenses. All additional funds will be dedicated to creating a music scholarship in Miles’ name.
In partnership with Iowa Safe Schools, the family hopes to support young musicians and continue the legacy of the music that meant so much to him.
Miles made an impact far greater than his years. His legacy is one of courage, creativity, and love.
Rest In Peace, Miles Phipps.
