John Jay Miller

John Jay Miller

John Jay Miller joined the Lord on April 26, 2022, at the age of 62. He is holding hands once more with his soulmate and bride, Lisa Morger-Miller. John was born to parents Bill and Dorothy Miller on July 3, 1959 in Spokane. The family soon moved to Missoula, where John grew up in the Catholic school system. He went to college at the University of Montana, where he met and married Lisa. John will be a Griz forever. John was known by several monikers, including Johnny, Red, and Big Griz Pappi.

John is remembered as an inspirational educator, who taught and coached countless children. His influence stretches from the wilds of Alaska to the mountains of Montana. As a dedicated advocate for teachers and students, his mentorship created a ripple effect that will be felt for generations. In his community, John put others first. His generosity extended to friends and family.

John instilled a love of the outdoors and traveling in his children. They remember fondly how their parents would pack the family into the pickup camper, ramble down the Alaska highways, and tour the wilderness. Growing up, the kids helped their parents operate the salmon wheel and fish the Little Susitna. They were seldom bored with two educator parents and an untamed state to explore. John’s children hold memories of both their parents close during this difficult time and share a beautiful, unbreakable bond because two people loved each other so deeply.

John is survived by his children, Jordan (Adrian) Miller, Gerald Miller, Victoria (Justin) Townsend, and his two granddaughters, Isla and Alaina. He is also survived by his siblings, Bill Miller, Joan Proctor, and Tim Miller, and countless in-laws (outlaws), nieces, nephews, and godchildren. John is preceded in death by the love of his life Lisa Morger-Miller, his parents, Bill and Dorothy Miller, his sister, Jayne Auld, and his brother, David Miller. We take comfort in the knowledge that they are all together again.

John’s memorial will take place at The Barn at The Ranch Club in Missoula, MT on July 10, 2022, from 11 am to 2 pm. The family encourages donations in John’s name to the Tamarack Grief Resource Center in lieu of flowers.

A special thank you to the people at Catalina Hospice and The Center in Tucson, AZ for their loving care and support during his final days. The family would also like to extend their sincerest gratitude towards his neighbors and friends of the Del Webb community in Marana, AZ. We are truly touched by your kindness to our father and your support of us during this time.