Thomas Harold Miller

Thomas Harold Miller, known as "Poppy" to his cherished grandchildren, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2024, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease. Born in Wheeling, West Virginia, on March 25, 1946, Tom lived a life rich with purpose, kindness, and service to others.

Tom wore many hats throughout his life: a teacher, a DJ, and a deacon, each reflecting his varied talents and passions. For over 30 years, he inspired countless students. He taught English and was the yearbook advisor at Salesianum School in Wilmington, Delaware. After his Ordination in 2000, he taught theology at Central Catholic in Allentown, PA. His classrooms were a space where creativity and curiosity thrived.

On the airwaves, Tom brought his warm voice and love for country music to life as a DJ for WDSD in Dover, Delaware. Yet, it was his calling to serve God and his community as a permanent Deacon that brought him the greatest fulfillment. Deacon Tom devoted himself to ministry, at several Parishes across Delaware, Pennsylvania, and most recently at St. Charles Borromeo Church in Kettering, Ohio. His faith was not just a belief but a way of life, radiating through his every word and action.

Tom found immense joy in traveling and exploring the beauty of the world. But perhaps his greatest adventure was his 50-year marriage to Sallie, his beloved wife, who preceded him in death. Together, they built a family filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

He is deeply missed by his children, Kelly (Thomas), Gregg (Danielle), and Jeffrey, as well as his grandchildren, Andrew, Emily, and Daniel. It was his love for his grandchildren that led him to Ohio in 2016, where he could share in their lives and be present for every milestone.

Tom is also reunited in heaven with his parents, brother, and three sisters, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and selflessness that will endure in the hearts of all who knew him.

A visitation will be held at St. Charles Borromeo Church in Kettering, Ohio, on Friday December 6th at 10:30am with mass immediately following at 11:30am. If unable to attend the mass

in person, please join us in prayer and participate virtually at www.stcharles-kettering.org. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Thomas’s honor, supporting the fight against the disease that took him from us.

Deacon Tom "Poppy" Miller's life was a testament to the power of kindness, the importance of faith, and the enduring strength of love. He will forever be in our hearts.

Donate to the Alzheimer’s Association in Thomas's memory