James A. Miller Major USAF, Ret.

Born February 7th, 1932, to Arthur and Lula Miller in Cumming, Iowa.  The second child and first boy, his early life was filled with farm chores to help his father. Eventually, Art and Lula would have seven children. Jim’s farm life would be cut short by a pending draft notice for the Korean War. Instead, he enlisted in the Air Force and hoped to one day work on airplanes because they fascinated him.  Following basic training, he took an opportunity to skip out on KP (Kitchen Patrol) by taking a day-long aptitude test instead.  Of 72 participants, only three had passing scores, but only one made Aviation Cadet: Jim Miller. Immediately, he transferred to flight/officer training.  He obtained his wings in 1954.

The Air Force trained him to be an outstanding pilot in multiple aircraft: F-80, F-86, F-100, C-119, C-124, C-123, C-141, and C-9A.  He served in Vietnam and was in Da Nang during the first Tet Offensive.  Jim proudly served his country for 23 years, earned several honors, including the Air Medal, and retired as a Major. He transitioned to commercial aircraft and eventually obtained his dream job as an MD-80 Captain for Alaska Airlines, flying out of their Long Beach, California Hub. By the end of his career at the FAA-mandated age of 60, Jim had totaled over 18,600 flight hours and qualified for 24 different aircraft, not to mention amassing a collection of stories to last for generations.

During his pilot training, he met his future wife (Jane H. Howell) at the Victoria, Texas “Jet Drive-In.”  They were married following her graduation from High School.  The family eventually included two boys, Davis A. Miller and Jefferson M. Miller.  Both boys loved to listen to their dad’s tales of flying and faraway places. He inspired his sons – and then later his grandchildren (Melinda Jane Miller and J.D. Miller) – to live to the highest personal standards and apply themselves to whatever interests them most.  

James A. Miller was a wonderful son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and friend.  He touched many lives and was an inspiration to all of us.  He will be sorely missed.

There will be a Memorial Service March 1, 2024 starting at 11 am at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Hot Springs