Raymond W Miller

Born on March 4, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York, Ray was the son of the late William L. Miller and Mary T. (Muscello) Miller. He grew up in New Jersey and graduated from Lodi High School, where he proudly wrestled for the school team.

After graduating from high school, Ray proudly served as a United States Marine from 1960 to 1966. Following his service, he began a 30‑year career with Hoffmann‑La Roche, working first in Nutley, NJ, and later in Belvidere, NJ, where he retired in 2001. During those early years, on April 11, 1964, he married the love of his life, Annette G. Spataro — the start of a 62‑year marriage that became the foundation of the life they built together.

While raising his family in Lopatcong Township, Ray became deeply rooted in his community. He served on the Town Council, held office as Mayor, and coached his daughters in softball for the township recreation department. He was also an active member of the Knights of Columbus and the Sierra Club, reflecting his lifelong commitment to service and stewardship.

Ray’s Catholic faith was a constant throughout his life. In New Jersey, he was a faithful member of Sts. Philip and James Roman Catholic Church in Phillipsburg. After moving to Florida in 2005, he continued his spiritual journey at St. Frances X. Cabrini Catholic Church in Spring Hill, where his faith remained a guiding force.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Ray loved watching football, hockey, and baseball, and especially enjoyed cheering on the Tampa Bay teams after settling in Florida. His passion for running extended far beyond participating in races — he organized the Roche Running Club, designed the club’s Rabbit logo, and oversaw numerous 5K and 10K events, bringing people together through fitness and camaraderie. An avid runner himself, he completed many races, including several Long Beach Island 18‑Milers and multiple Marine Corps Marathons.

In retirement, Ray rediscovered a love for golf, playing part‑time and working at several golf courses in both New Jersey and Florida. He also nurtured a lifelong love of gardening, proudly completing the Master Gardener program through the University of Florida and tending to a yard that became a source of joy and pride.

Ray had a quiet passion for painting — whether refreshing something around the house or adding new life to one of his cherished Seven Dwarf statues. Among family and friends, he was also known for his “famous” apple pie, a treat he baked for holidays or simply whenever the mood struck. He kept the recipe in a special spot in the kitchen, guarded with pride.

Above all, Ray was the heart of his family — a source of wisdom, comfort, and unwavering love that will be cherished for generations.

Ray is survived by his beloved wife, Annette; his daughters, Debbie Miller (partner Brian Seide) of Brooksville, FL, and Donna (Miller) Tomaro (husband Robert Tomaro) of Springfield, OH; and his grandchildren, Kaleigh Gibbs (husband Carlos Rodriguez), Jonathan Tomaro, Aidan Gibbs, and Spencer Tomaro. He was blessed with three great‑grandchildren — Enzio, Naveigh, and Carrigan — who brought him endless joy. He also leaves behind his cherished dog, Sammie, lovingly referred to as his “third daughter.”

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, William and Mary, and his brothers, Joseph Miller and James Miller.

Final arrangements will be determined at the discretion of the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Toys for Tots in Ray’s memory — honoring his lifelong pride in being a United States Marine — to the Parkinson’s Foundation, or to a charity of one’s choosing.