Larry James Miller

Larry James Miller, 86, of Herscher returned to his Heavenly Father on Wednesday, May 17, 2023. He was born on October 7, 1936 in Paxton, the son of Howard and Gladys (Lyons) Miller.

Growing up, he lived in Paxton, IL and San Carlos, CA, moving back to the Gilman area where he graduated from Gilman High School in 1955 and meeting his future wife, Ruth (Wilken) Miller. After serving four years in the United States Navy, Larry and Ruth were married in Danforth at St. John's Lutheran Church on July 11, 1959. They had sixty-three years of marriage until Ruth's death on April 17, 2023. He was a devoted husband and father, always putting family first. His sons have fun memories of their adventures together. Just ask them about their road trips to California.

Larry earned his bachelor's degree from Illinois University in Bloomington, IL and master's degree from the University of Illinois is Champaign, IL. He spent his entire career teaching and coaching at Herscher High School from 1964-1993. In the classroom, he taught US History, World Geography, Physical Education, and Drivers Education. Along with teaching many Herscher students to drive, he also taught his own grandchildren. After retiring, Larry could still be found at Herscher sporting events supporting various athletic teams.

Larry was also a member of the coaching staff for Olivette Nazarene College beginning with the team's inaugural season in 1976 until 1986.

Larry is survived by two sons, Gregory (Sherry) Miller of St. Louis and Steven (Bunny) Miller of Rochelle; five grandchildren, Lauren (Nate) Morris, Nathan Miller, Shane Miller, Samantha Miller, and Owen Miller; great grandson, Alexander Morris; brother in law, Alvin D. Miller; and sisters in law, Joyce Miller and Diane Phillips.

He was preceded in passing by his parents, Howard and Gladys; wife, Ruth; brothers, Howard Miller and Jerry Phillips; and sisters, Lola Barney, Lois Tittle, and Phyllis Morris.

Larry was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Herscher. In retirement, Larry enjoyed ushering at the Rialto Theater in Joliet, serving as an officer on the Volunteer Board, and being inducted into the Volunteer Hall of Fame. He loved doing crossword puzzles, going to the casino, watching his grandchildren's sporting events, and spoiling his granddaughters.

Funeral services will be at 2:00 pm at Trinity Lutheran Church in Herscher on Wednesday, May 24, 2023. Pastor Eric Brown will officiate. Burial will follow at Danforth Cemetery in Danforth. Visitation will be two hours prior to the service at church from 12:00-2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church in Herscher.

Please share a memory of Larry at knappfuneralhomes.com.