James D Miller, Jr.

James D. Miller, Jr. passed away peacefully on December 22, 2022, at the age of 96. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Steve and Pat, of Louisville, and his grandsons, Blake and Clarke. He was a man of deep faith, few words, and many deeds.

Jim was born on May 1, 1926, in South Irvine, Kentucky to his parents, James and Dina Miller. When he was in the seventh grade, his family moved to a farm in Madison County. Jim was an excellent basketball and baseball player for Waco High School.

Soon after high school graduation, Jim enlisted in the Navy, joining his only sibling, Birchell, in the Pacific Theater. He served on the U.S.S. Sappho as a Higgins boat coxswain.

Upon returning to Kentucky, he attended his beloved Berea College and was a pitcher on the baseball team. As a 1950 Berea graduate, Jim moved to Lawrenceburg, where he met his future wife of 66 years, Aileen Moffett.

Jim’s career with the U.S. Department of Agriculture as a Soil Conservationist spanned 35 years. He was an environmentalist long before that became fashionable, serving the farmers of Owen, Grant, Nelson, and Lincoln Counties with distinction.

After retirement, Jim continued his volunteer work. Owenton First Baptist Church named him Deacon Emeritus for decades of faithful service. He was well known for his bountiful garden from which he delivered vegetables to so many friends. Jim was a Big Band music enthusiast, a public library supporter, a Louisville Cardinals fan, and a devoted grandfather.

The Miller family appreciates the Enclave of East Louisville staff for their excellent care during the last four years. A celebration of Jim’s life will take place at Owenton First Baptist Church at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, December 28, with visitation from 11:00 am-12:45 pm. Donations in his honor can be made to Owenton First Baptist Church or Berea College.