James R. Miller

James R. Miller, age 84, of Florissant, Missouri, passed away peacefully in Florissant. He was born on March 15, 1941, in Ava, Illinois, to Ernest Robert and Dera Ellen (nee: Van Hoy) Miller. James was preceded in death by his first-born son, Rodney Miller; his parents, Dera and Ernest Miller; his twin sister, Joyce Strange; his brother, Irvin Miller; his daughter-in-law, Dana Miller (nee: McNabb), and his step-granddaughter, Jaclyn Gold. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Martha Miller (nee: McKinnerney); his children, Timothy (Carla) Miller, Janet (James) Savkovich, and Jonathan (Chris) Miller; his grandchildren, Ted Miller, Nick Miller, Sam (Airicka) Savkovich, Laurie Savkovich, and Alistine Savkovich; and his great-grandchildren, Audrie Savkovich and Gabriel Gonzalez. James is also survived by his siblings, Lois (Daniel) Green and Kenneth (the late Wanda) Miller; his step-grandchildren, Michelle Gold and Jayme (Joseph) Gold; and his step-great-grandchildren, Alyssa Millburg, Jason Gold, Kaden Schroeder, and Rainey Brosch. He also leaves behind his honorary son, Brian (Cat) Kennedy. James was a dear uncle, cousin, and friend to many. James attended O’Fallon Technical School in St. Louis, Missouri, and worked for Union Electric until his retirement in 1996. He was known for his strong work ethic, his faithfulness, and his kind, generous spirit. After retirement, he made daily exercise part of his routine and continued to live an active, joyful life. James was a member of Chatham Bible Church in Hazelwood, Missouri. He was active in the churches he was a member of throughout his life. He cherished spending time with friends and family and was known for his hospitality. He loved opening his home to others for gatherings, celebrations, and holidays. A man of many interests, James loved playing dominos, tinkering with electronics, and practicing photography in his younger years. He had a lifelong love of animals—both wild and domestic—and always had pets, especially cats and dogs. He had a deep appreciation for music, particularly classical and gospel, and enjoyed watching classic Westerns such as Gunsmoke, The Rifleman, and Bonanza. Above all, James was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He set a powerful example of faith, integrity, and kindness for his children. Family trips, outdoor adventures, and visits to relatives in Illinois created lasting memories for all who loved him. James will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for his warmth, faith, and the love he shared with all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in James' name to Chatham Bible Church or Alzheimer's Association.

James R. Miller

March 15, 1941 - November 3, 2025