Obituary
Pastor James (Jim) Lee Miller passed away on Sunday, February 19, at the age of 74 in his home in Fort Myers, Florida, alongside his family.
Jim was born on December 6, 1948, in Port Allegany, Pennsylvania, to Verlin (Bud) Lee and Evelyn Louise (Elkins) Miller. He graduated from Gateway Highschool in Monroeville, PA, in 1966. A pastor at heart before ever attending seminary, Jim gave back to his high school community by ministering as a Young Life leader. After high school, he attended Penn State University and transferred to the University of Pittsburgh where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Jim was a committed student of God’s Word, and his love of scripture led him to pursue graduate education at the Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, graduating with a Master of Divinity. Jim continued to study the Bible throughout his whole life and ministered to others by serving as a pastor for 50 years. Jim was always eager for a pot of coffee, good conversation, and any opportunity to share the hope of the Gospel.
Jim loved being a husband, father, and grandfather. Jim and Suzanne were an unstoppable couple in and out of the church. They always made each and every person in their church feel heard, seen, and loved. Jim’s fun-loving personality and sense of humor entertained both his family and his congregation. He loved being a grandfather, evidenced by his brightened expression every time his grandchildren came into the room.
Jim is survived by his loving wife of 37 years; their six children, Rachel Elizabeth Blake (spouse, Karolyn and daughter, Emma), James Lee Miller II (fiancée, Stephanie), Abigail Leigh Oshea (spouse, Mike and children, Sara Mae and Connor), Noah Charles Miller (spouse, Sara and daughter, Lily), Rebecca Joy Oblak (spouse, Nick and daughter, Aurora); and Nathan Talmage Miller (spouse, Alayna). Jim is also survived by his sister, Janet Blake, and life-long friend, Pastor Jim Spitzel. He will be missed by his entire family and his many friends he made along the way from Pennsylvania to Florida.
A memorial service will be held for Jim Miller on Thursday, February 23, at 11 AM at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 9065 Ligon Ct, Fort Myers, FL 33908-3602.
A graveside service will be held for Jim Miller on March 25, 2023 11 AM at Armagh Cemetery, 196 Grange Hall Road, Seward, PA 15954. Luncheon to follow at Armagh Church, 570 West Philadelphia Street Armagh, PA 15920.
Our deepest sympathy to Suzanne and family from Dave and Amy, Jonathan and Nate Smail
1.) Vacation Bible School in Unionville
2.) The hill on Glenn Eden Road in Cranberry that Mrs. Miller would try to make air. (Which I do with my children to this day).
3.) Our after-service breakfasts at Kaufman House in Zelienople.
4.) And a hand painted portrait of my family lovingly made and still hung in my parent's house.
5.) Christmas eve services at Unionville UMC.
6.) Being introduced to Disney's Sword and the stone, and Robin Hood...and watching them every time.
7.) The absolute joy Pastor Miller and Mrs. Miller had when Rachel was born.
Those are but a few, but very prominent memories that shaped my childhood. Pastor Miller was patient. He was kind. But most importantly, he loved being with people. He and Mrs. Miller were a tight team in Christ.
I extend my deepest condolences to the Miller family. My heart aches for your loss. If I could, I would give everyone a big hug. Be safe and trust in God.
I am so proud to have him as a role model. I understand that not everyone has a dad who is there.
I feel lost knowing that he is not here anymore.
I am so sad that the is gone, but I am happy he is not in pain anymore.
Rest in peace Dad, We lost you to soon.