Robert “Bob” Miller, Sr., 90, died on June 11, 2023, at his home.
A Celebration of Life Funeral Mass was held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, June 15, at Trinity Episcopal Church in Columbus, GA. Father Andy Blakemore officiated. A visitation with family and friends was held one hour prior to service. Interment will take place in Belleville, Illinois. Striffler-Hamby Mortuary-Columbus is assisting the family with arrangements.
Mr. Miller was born July 10, 1932 in Belleville, to Robert F. and Mary Ann Nugent Miller.
He received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri in 1955, and later received his Master’s degree in Education from University of Illinois in 1959. He proudly served his country during the Korean War. While stationed at Fort Belvoir in Virginia, he taught in the Engineer School as well as played on the Army Basketball team. Upon discharge, Mr. Miller entered the field of education. He taught all levels and became principal of Litchfield High School, where he worked from 1969 to 1972. He was principal of Taylorville High School from 1972 to 1986. In 1989, following his 30 years in education, Mr. Miller and his wife, Jean Marie Fuller Miller, retired in Columbus, GA. He was active in the community, coaching a softball team for the All Saints Presbyterian Church. He became a member of St. Thomas Church, and later became a member of Trinity Episcopal Church. At one point he served on the vestry as well as a lay episcopal minister.
Mr. Miller was happiest serving in several capacities such as coaching, playing basketball and softball. He had a passion for basketball whether playing, refereeing or coaching the game. He loved mentoring students, and always put a smile on another person’s face, to brighten their day. He always seemed to demonstrate God’s love to others. Mr. Miller liked people! People liked Mr. Miller. Mr. Miller was a positive, jovial mentor, always exhibiting a warm smile and genuine concern for all who crossed his path. Mr. Miller will be fondly remembered by all his loving family, friends and the thousands of students he served.
The family writes, “One of our Dad’s favorite scriptures was ‘A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.’ (John 13:34-35) We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:8).”
He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years; their two children, son Robert “Bobby” James Miller, Jr. of Westmont, and daughter LTC (Retired) Mary Elizabeth (Robert David) Miller Tenhet of Swansea, Massachusetts; and one brother-in-law, COL (Retired) John D. (Sara) Fuller of Freeport, Florida.
He is preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, JoAnn Miller Sekosky and her husband of Rocky River, Ohio.
The family suggests memorials be made to Trinity Episcopal Church or the charity of the donor’s choice.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.shcolumbus.com for the Miller family.
