Edward Collins Miller

Edward Collins Miller, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, esteemed attorney, and revered actor, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2025, surrounded by family. He was born on December 5th, 1951, in Sylacauga, Alabama, to Edward Lamar “Tops” and Margaret Collins Miller.

Edward attended Auburn University, where he completed a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre (1974) and competed on the university’s tennis team. He later earned his Masters of Fine Arts in Directing from the University of Denver (1976).

Following his studies, Edward pursued his lifelong passion for the theatre working as an actor, director, producer, and theatre professor in Pensacola, Florida. His creativity and charisma inspired countless students and colleagues. Eventually, he turned his attention to law, graduating from Cumberland School of Law (1984) and building a respected career as an attorney in Birmingham for over 30 years.

Outside of the courtroom, Edward lived life with the same passion, intellect, and generosity that defined his career. His interests were as rich and varied as the man himself. A lifelong lover of tennis, he found joy in every aspect of the game — playing, officiating, and watching. His love of sports extended to cheering on his beloved Auburn Tigers, win or lose. His love of theatre endured throughout his life and one of his greatest creative joys was his one-man show An Evening with Mark Twain, which he began more than forty years ago and continued to share with the community in countless productions.

Edward was also an extraordinary cook and host, known for his mastery of fine French cuisine, down-home Southern comfort food and everything in between. His fried chicken, perfectly cooked steaks, barbecue, and warm cheesecakes became the tastes of home. His love of food naturally extended to a love of entertaining; whether it be hosting lavish Christmas, New Year’s or surprise birthday parties, or simply leaving an open seat at the dinner table as a place where friends could come to laugh, eat and belong.

Edward’s faith and service to his community were as integral to his life as his artistry and family. He was an active member of the Independent Presbyterian Church for more than forty years. He served faithfully as an elder and deacon and shared his creative gifts as the longtime drama director for Bible Times Marketplace at the Children’s Fresh Air Farm.

Those who knew Edward describe him as a classic, a class act in every sense — charming, witty, and disarmingly clever, with a dry humor that could light up a room. He was quick with a tease, loyal to the core, and deeply devoted to his family. His charisma and humor were matched only by his generosity of spirit and his remarkable ability to make others feel seen, entertained, and loved.

Edward’s greatest passion, however, was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, April; his children, Evan (Anna) and Duncan (Katie); his precious grandson, Jack (Evan and Anna); and his faithful dog, Deason, who rarely left his side. He was preceded in death by his sister, Lynda, and brother-in-law, Ernest “Lip” Lipscomb.

The memorial service will be held on Tuesday, October 28, at 10 AM at the Independent Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, with visitation to follow. Edward will be laid to rest at Evergreen Cemetery in Sylacauga, Alabama at 2 PM that afternoon.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Presbyterian Home for Children or the Independent Presbyterian Church's Children’s Fresh Air Farm, or the Independent Presbyterian Church's Music & Fine Arts Department in Edward’s memory.

Edward’s life was a testament to his curiosity, faith, humor, and unwavering love for those around him. He approached each day with creativity, generosity, and wit — qualities that continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be deeply missed, yet joyfully remembered, by the many whose lives he touched.