MGySgt James J Miller, of West Chester, PA passed on November 19, 2022, while at Promedica Hospice in King of Prussia, PA at the age of 89 years old- just short of his 90th birthday. Jim was born on December 12, 1932, in Chicago IL to Leo J Zitzman (Miller) and Alice Miller. The three traveled the country in his early childhood years, settling in Upper Darby, PA where Jim went to West Catholic School for Boys, Phila., PA and graduated from Villanova University (1958), where his father taught math.
Jim was predeceased by his wife of 48 years, Grace Miller, and daughter Sheila Rodgers. He is survived by his daughter Sharon Miller Kane of Perryville, MD; and a son Michael Miller (Leesa) of Lewes, DE, in addition to his seven grandchildren spread around the country, who continually light up his life.
Jim's persona was all things Marine, as he served 31 years and was a Korean War Veteran. Throughout his military years he worked at General Electric, King of Prussia, PA in the space division (Apollo mission) as a product manager. Additionally, he coached football 20 years to youngsters through the Little American Football Association (LAFA) of West Chester, PA. To this day he is remembered by many players (adults now) through this program as he referred to them as "gentlemen" on the field -that while looking at the helmet and safety gear larger than the small life inside....
Involvement at multiple levels, Jim was a life member of the Marine Corps League, VFW, DAV, and the Fleet Reserve Association. He was also a member of the American Legion, Marine Corps Association, and the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation.
Jim never met a stranger and in addition to the above loved to simply have fun and explore new places. He could be packed and ready for the next adventure with a moment's notice. He loved to dance; when the music started to flow, and the dance floor had room, you could see Jim out there doing the Mummer's Strut as if he were winding his way through the streets of Philly on New Year's Day!
Relatives and friends are invited to his visitation, Monday November 28, 2022 from 9:30-10:45am at the SS Peter & Paul Church 1325 Boot Road West Chester PA, followed by his Funeral Mass at 11AM interment following at Philadelphia Memorial Park, Frazer, PA, and luncheon to follow for all in attendance (as Jim wished for a celebration of life).
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Amigos De Jesus Orphanage (Malvern PA), Best Friends Animal Sanctuary (Kanab, UT) or Malvern Retreat House (Malvern, PA).
Arrangements by DellaVecchia, Reilly, Smith & Boyd Funeral Home, Inc. West Chester 610-696-1181 www.DellaFH.com
Please note: For anyone needing to stay overnight please visit https://www.marriott.com/events/start.mi?id=1669150584083&key=GRP or Call 610-524-5500