In Loving Memory of J.D. Davis Miller

In Loving Memory of James "J.D." Davis Miller

Sunrise: December 11, 1941~Sunset: April 29, 2020

James Davis Miller, 78, passed away Wednesday, April 29, 2020 in Tacoma Washington. He was born on December 11, 1941 to James “Jimmy D” Davis and Esther Marie Miller in Leavenworth, Kansas.

J.D. attended Leavenworth High School, Leavenworth, Kansas before entering the Army in 1959. He completed basic training at Ft. Leonard Wood, MO in 1962.

Throughout the time that he was in the service, and later became staff sergeant first class and earned several medals, including the Purple Heart. In 1966, he completed the Special Forces Extension course known as the Green Beret. He attended Seattle University in 1968, as the ROTC Department Administrative Supervisor. He was wounded while serving in Vietnam, and received other commendations for his dedication and bravery. J.D excelled at serving his country having been a decorated veteran in the Vietnam War.  

In 1972, he received the Army Commendation Medal for his meritorious achievement while assigned as a recruiter at the United States Army Recruiting Main Station, Kansas City, MO. He worked diligently to exceed assigned recruiting goals. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion VFW Post 1263 in Renton, Washington. In his military career, he served in many countries. The discipline and patriotism he learned in the Army never left him, as family and friends will attest. In 1979, he retired with full honors.

He was a brave and loyal soldier, as well as a patient and loving father. He owned a carpet business. His success in the business can be directly attributed to his work ethic in the service. He took pride in his accomplishments and enjoyed life to the fullest! We can proudly say that “Daddy” made a lasting impression on everyone he met with his charm, which was only surpassed by the size of his heart. His energy, mischief, kindness and zest for life are what his family will remember most. He will also be missed by the many friends he touched that we now consider family. We will miss the joy and love he brought into our lives, and we couldn’t be more proud of him. J.D. will be remembered by his infectious smile and his chocolate smooth skin.

He was preceded in death by his parents: James Davis and Esther Miller; six siblings: Robert Miller, Eileen Bartlett-Doolin, Hazel Hanner, Mae McFarland, Jonell Chaney and William Hanner; son: James Davis Miller II; grandson; Lorenzo Le’Mont Lucas; nephew & niece: Leroy & Charmaine McFarland.

He leaves to cherish his legacy; wife: Lorraine “Toni” Miller; his 4 children; Eva Miller, Jacqueline (Norman) Dudley, Jai Miller and Eunita “Nina” Miller from his first wife, Otholene “Lennie” Monroe (deceased); his 5 children; James D Miller (deceased), Donisha (Eric) Miller; Marilyn Monroe-Foster, Tony (Sherrie) Foster, and Eddie (Kari) Carter from his second wife, Lillie Miller; son: Jason Rutland; and bonus son: Robert “Fats” Durant; siblings; Wesley Miller, John (Jackie) McFarland, Anita Bell, Trent (Cynthia) McDaniel, Yvette Miller and Viola Davis; 28 grandchildren; a host of great grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren and many relatives and friends.