James Earl "Coach" Miller

James Earl “Coach” Miller, faithful and much loved husband, daddy, and pappy, age 86, went home to our Lord and his precious wife, Joyce Fay Miller, and sweet dog, Katie, on July 9, 2021. He is survived by his devoted daughter, Michelle Miller Clupper and fiancé, Chris DeFord; his pride and joy, grandson, Kevin Clupper and grand-girlfriend, Alexandra Brockman; step grandsons to be Brandon DeFord (Taylor Davis) and Dameon Howell (Kassi); two great grandbabies, Jason Howell and Evie Howell; and one feisty and loved grandpup, Roxie, all of Knoxville. He is also survived by his sisters, Betty Settle, Clara Gaine (Michael), Jewell Cross (Jerry); and brothers, Walter Miller (Margaret) and Jerry Miller; and many treasured nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Horace and Lola Miller of Maynardville; and sisters, Doris Hill and Nadine Bolin. “Pappy” or “Coach” as they knew him at the railroad was a man of strength who loved his family fiercely and never met a stranger. He was a lifetime member of Valley View Baptist Church where he served the Lord faithfully for over 50 years. Pappy sacrificially cared for everyone he met and was known to always have a smile, a piece of candy and a flashlight to give away. He loved animals, especially his granddogs Katie and Roxie. Pappy was a believer in Christ and the family rejoices that he is now with Jesus and his beloved wife of almost 60 years and that they will be reunited with them both someday soon. The family will meet at Greenwood Cemetery at 12:45 pm on Sunday, July 11, 2021 for the 1:00 pm graveside service. Rev. Justin Pratt will officiate. Pallbearers will be Kevin Clupper, Chris DeFord, Brandon DeFord, Dameon Howell, John Hudson and Justin Mize. The family would like to thank U.T. Hospice, especially Stephanie, Heather, Candice, Mary, and Penny for their love and support, as well as Tosha with Brighter Days Home Care. Arrangements by Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home, 2300 Adair Dr. Knoxville, TN 37918, 865-689-8888. www.berrylynnhurst.com.