Billy J. Miller

Billy Joe Miller, age 91 years, a resident of Vienna and a former resident of Marion, passed away Tuesday morning, June 20, 2017, at 11:10 AM at his home. Bill was born January 21, 1926 in rural Marion, Illinois. He was the third eldest of eight children born to Robert and Stella (Krantz) Miller. On February 11, 1953, Bill was united in marriage to Thelma Newton in Piggott, Arkansas. She preceded him in death on December 10, 1990. Bill was later united in marriage to Doris (nee DuFour) Throgmorton on April 2, 2000 in Vienna. She survives. Additionally, Bill is survived by his children – Scarlett (Rick Warren) Miller of Marion, Bobby (his wife, Sherry) Throgmorton of Vienna, and Teri Sue (her husband, Bill) Coscarelli of Paducah, Kentucky; 4 grandchildren – Bryan Throgmorton, Brittni Throgmorton, Jessie Goines and a special “little daughter” Cyra Coscarelli, who he called his sweetheart; 2 sisters – Juanita Nolen of Marion and Mildred Rodd of Schererville, Indiana; 2 brothers – Kenneth Miller and Jerry Miller both of Marion; a nephew – Kyle Williams of Marion along additional nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to his first wife, Thelma, and his parents, Bill was preceded in death by 2 brothers – Eugene Miller and Leon Miller. Bill was a 1944 graduate of Marion High School. Following his high school graduation, Bill enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the Asiatic/Pacific theater of operation during World War II. He was honorably discharged in 1946. Bill was employed as a line clearance foreman by Central Illinois Public Service Co. (C.I.P.S.). At the time of his passing, Bill was the oldest living member of Monitor Lodge # 236 Knights of Pythias in Marion. He was of the Baptist faith. Bill enjoyed fishing and flower gardening. A service honoring the life of Billy Joe Miller will be conducted Saturday afternoon, June 24, 2017, at 1 PM at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. Burial will be in the Vienna Fraternal Cemetery. Military graveside honors will be accorded by the Beggs-Gurley VFW Post # 5222 of Vienna and the Illinois National Guard burial honors detail. Visitation will be held Friday evening, June 23, 2017, from 5 PM – 8 PM at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. Memorials may be made to the American Lung Association, 3000 Kelly Lane, Springfield, Illinois 62711-6226 (www.lungil.org)

Billy J. Miller

January 21, 1926 - June 20, 2017