Russell Junior Miller

Russell Junior Miller, 89, of Fort Smith, peacefully passed into the arms of his Heavenly Father Thursday, January 20. Each step of his beautiful life journey was completed with Dorothy Miller, his best friend and wife of 70 years. What a beautiful moment it was when Jesus reached for Russ’s hand while Dorothy held the other.

Russ was born on September 26, 1927 in Barry, IL. He was one of fourteen children born to Russell and Thelma Miller. He attended school through only the 11 grade so that he could work and help support his family. His strong commitment to family blessed the Miller family for many generations. After attending school in Barry, Illinois, Russ also showed his love for his country by serving in the US Navy.

Russ and Dorothy met at the tender age of 16. Who could have known the beautiful smile and wink of a handsome young man was the beginning of such a beautiful love story? Russ and Dorothy were married in Palmyra, MO on June 26, 1946. They were inseparable from that moment forward.

Together Russ and Dorothy raised a beautiful family. They built their lives around a commitment to God and each other. Russ’ contagious laughter and twinkling eyes brought joy to so many people – whether it be at work, church, ballgames or home with family. His smile truly could light up a room. Prior to moving to Fort Smith, Russ and Dorothy attended church at Salvation Army KROC Center in Quincy, IL.

There is nothing Russ loved more than his family. But, oh how he loved baseball and his St. Louis Cardinals! Every generation of his family cherishes precious memories of playing baseball with him and watching games. He also enjoyed wood working and building things for family and friends.

Russ made his living as a mechanic for 40 years. He owned a Philips 66 service station at 17th and State as well as working at several stations in the Quincy, IL area. Throughout his life his reputation was built his strong ethics, mechanical skills and willingness to help all in need.

Russ’ priority in life was his beautiful wife and the family they built together. He is survived by Dorothy; his son, Terry Miller of Pittsfield, IL; his daughter, Diane Hanegan and her husband Rick of Marshalltown, IA; his daughter, Sharon Burr and her husband Chuck of Fort Smith, AR; his daughter, Cheryl Clabby and her husband Bob of Keokuk, IA; his daughter, Vickie Sheets and her husband George of Wichita Falls, TX; and his daughter, Kim Sims and her husband James of Rogers, AR. Also surviving are 17 grandchildren, 48 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Thomas Miller and his wife Monique of Pittsfield, IL; his sister, Sue Lair and her husband Pablo, of Pittsfield, IL and his sister Rosemary Darnell and her husband Glen of Beverly, IL; his sister, Wanda Kingery of Blue Ridge, KS and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Russ was preceded in death by his parents; two grandsons, Donald Scott Taylor, Jr. and Pastor Rusty Miller; as well as five sisters and five brothers.

Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service to celebrate Russ’ life Tuesday, January 24th at Edwards Funeral Home, Fort Smith, AR. Visitation with the family will begin at 10am with the memorial service following at 11am. The family is grateful for condolences and requests any donations be made on behalf of Russ Miller to the Alzheimer’s Association.

To sign an online guestbook visit www.edwardsfuneralhome.com