2022ObituariesUncategorizedJames Miller, Jr.

It is with sadness, love and profound gratitude, that the family of James W. Miller Jr. announces his passing on June 11, 2022. J.W. departed for his eternal home in Baton Rouge, LA, while surrounded by his loving family. Patriotic, strong, loving, tough, brave, thoughtful, faithful, loyal, a fighter . . . these are just a few words that those closest to him would describe J.W. Miller. He was probably the most proud and Patriotic American you’ve ever encountered and was the epitome of “speak softly and carry a big stick”, while simultaneously wrapping you in his reassuring embrace. He was a man of few words but always thoughtful in his actions and accomplishments, exhibiting fierce loyalty along the way. J.W. was a fighter in all areas of life and fought bravely until the very last moment he shared with the world. Born August 17, 1943 to James William Sr. and Lillie Mae Richardson in Ponchatoula, LA, J.W. grew up with four brothers and one sister. He enlisted in the US Marine Corps on his 17 th birthday and was assigned to the 1 st Marine Division, proudly serving his country in the Vietnam War and other locations around the world. J.W. returned to Louisiana and started a career in the process industry, eventually retiring from BASF Chemical after more than 30 years of dedicated service. J.W. married Gail Johnson in 1964, with whom he enjoyed more than 30 years of marriage. During this time, they were blessed with two sons, Richard and Jimmy Miller. The couple raised their family in Denham Springs, LA. Gail preceded J.W. in death in 2003. In 2007, J.W. married Marilyn Medlen of Baton Rouge. Their blended family would now grow by three daughters from Marilyn’s previous marriage – Karen, Robyn and Allyson. J.W. enjoyed the great outdoors, LSU sports, gardening, and spending time with family. J.W. is preceded in death by his father, James William Sr., mother, Lillie Mae Richardson, sister Dorothy, and his two brothers, Johnny, and Joey. He leaves behind his loving wife, Marilyn, 5 children, Richard and wife Tina, Jimmy and Jenny, Karen and husband Glen, Robyn and husband Chad, and Allyson and husband A.J. J.W. was blessed with eleven grandchildren: Mickey, Hunter, Alex, Zachary, Abigail, Jacob, Brittany, Jared, Ainsley, Colette and August, and three great grandchildren: Jaidyn, Rylie, Eli. J.W. also leaves behind two brothers, Jewell and wife Sandra, and Bob and wife Diane. In lieu of flowers, J.W. requested that donations be made to the ALS association of Louisiana or to The Paralyzed Veterans of America. J.W. and his entire family are extraordinarily grateful for their assistance, generosity, and care. Services will be held at Most Blessed Catholic Church in Baton Rouge on June 16 th . Visitation begins at 9:30 a.m. followed by an 11:30 funeral mass, officiated by Father Phil Spano. Graveside service will be at Evergreen Memorial Park (Seale Funeral Home cemetery) in Denham Springs.