Virgil Alexander Miller
Virgil Alexander Miller, 89, a beloved pillar of theAnna community, passed away on May 25, 2024.
He was born on April 28, 1935, to Jack Miller and Maggie Hamilton Miller in Anna. Virgil’s journey in education began with a strong foundation in Anna. Then, he pursued higher education at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, earning his Bachelor’s degree before furthering his academic pursuits with a Master’s degree from TWU.
Athletics played a significant role in Virgil’s life. He was a formidable presence on the sports field, having competed in football and track for Texas Christian University from 1955 to 1958, leaving an indelible mark on the university’s athletic legacy.
On August 9, 1960, Virgil married the love of his life, Jan Sherley, in Corpus Christi. Their union was a testament to enduring love and companionship that lasted a lifetime filled with cherished moments.
Virgil’s dedication to nurturing young minds led him to a distinguished career in education. He served as a coach in various school districts including Temple, Wortham, Celina, Van Alstyne, and Mt. Vernon before returning to Celina, where he retired. He served as an elementary principal and later as a high school principal at Celina, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students and athletes.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Virgil was a devoted member and elder of the First Christian Church in Anna, where his faith guided his actions and interactions with others. Above all, Virgil cherished his roles as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. His warmth, kindness, and unwavering support enriched the lives of his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Virgil will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by his family, friends, colleagues, and the countless lives he touched throughout his remarkable journey as a coach, teacher, and principal.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 64 years, Jan Miller, of Anna; son, Bart Miller and partner, Kimberly Johnson, of Celina; son, Wren Miller and wife, Kathy, of Dallas; daughter, Marquin Miller Hunn and husband, Shain, of Celina; grandchildren, Paige Saunders and husband, Rob; Alex Miller, Ellis Miller, Christopher Miller, Miles Kunkle, Mendel Kunkle, Hailee Hunn Boyd, Dezi Boyd, Hayden Hunn, and Riley Hunn; brother, Bill Miller, of Caddo, OK; sister, Peggy Hall, also of Caddo; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members, and cherished friends.
Virgil was preceded in death by his son, Miles Miller; daughter-in-law, Rebecca Miller; parents, Jack and Maggie Miller; brother, Hamp Miller; and sister, Karlyne Hendricks.
The Miller family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to Lina, Cristina, Alice, Waunderful, and Janet for the care they provided to Virgil.
A funeral service was held at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 1, at First Christian Church in Anna. Following the service, a procession made its way to Melissa Cemetery in Melissa. The family received friends during a visitation on Friday evening from 6 until 8 p.m. at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Chapel. Memorial contributions may be made in Virgil Miller’s memory to First Christian Church, P.O. Box 365, Anna, TX 75409. To convey condolences and to sign an online registry, please visit www.tjmfuneral.com.
