Ralph Michael "Big Guy" Miller's Obituary
Ralph Michael "Big Guy" Miller, 71, of Anniston, Alabama passed away Saturday, September 13, 2025 in Centre, Alabama. Mike was a beloved husband, father, grandfather ("Pop"), uncle, and friend to so many. He had a profound love for his family and will be dearly missed by them and all who knew and loved him.
Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 45 years, Miriam Miller; their children, Matt Miller and Meg (Joe) Carlson; his grandchildren Ella Carlson and Raleigh Carlson. Also his step-mother Susan Miller; his brothers Mark (Darlene) Miller, Scott (Kelley) Miller, Josh (Laura) Miller and a host of nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews. Lastly, his very special friend, his poodle Molly who is an expert snuggler.
Mike is preceded in death by his father, Ralph L. Miller and his mother, Joanne G. Miller.
Mike was deeply involved with his family and loved to host family gatherings among the most famous of which were the "Miller Swims" that always ended in a sprawling family photo. He was also deeply religious and loved his Savior and his Methodist Faith; he attended Dearmanville Methodist Church where he served on committees that helped the Church better serve the congregation. He helped organize church league sports including softball, volleyball, and basketball.
Mike supported work for the Walter Wellborn High School Athletics, he also played football at Wellborn and Jacksonville State University. He golfed daily at Pine Hill Golf Club and for many years officiated High School and College sports. In his vocation he was a devoted employee and leader at the Anniston Army Depot.
In the latter years of his life he battled a long and recurring battle with Melanoma, but it never got him down or shook his faith. As early as Thursday of last week he claimed he was "healed by prayers" of those he loved.
Honorary pallbearers will be Officials from Mideast Football Association, Officials from Mt. Cheaha Basketball Association, and Officials of the East Alabama Softball Association.
Services will be held Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025 at DeArmanville Methodist Church
a visitation will be held from 10AM -12PM and the celebration of life will begin at 12PM. Pastor Paul Vick will officiate.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Dearmanville Methodist Church P.O. Box 234 Dearmanville Alabama; or the Wellborn High School Benefit Fund for Athletics at 135 Nicholas Dr. Oxford AL 36203.
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