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Thomas Miller Obituary – 12-14-22
 
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Thomas Joseph Miller (Laurinburg, NC), who passed away on December 14, 2022, at the age of age 74. Tom was affectionately known by family and friends as T.S., and he later earned the coveted title of Papa Miller by his six treasured grandchildren.
He was born on November 10,1948 in Chicago, IL and grew up in Lake Forest, IL. Tom attended St. Thomas University in St. Paul, Minnesota. Later the Miller family lived in the suburbs of Chicago (Hinsdale and Homewood) for many years before heading south. Laurinburg, NC became home in 1982 where he spent his career at Forester Textile Mills, Inc. for over 40 years, most notably as president for the latter half of his career.
An avid dog lover, especially of golden retrievers, Tom spoiled his pets almost as much as he did his grandchildren. He loved to see how many grandchildren could climb up with him in his favorite recliner to watch TV. Papa Miller will be remembered for his legendary blueberry pancakes. He loved great food- especially roast beef and Yorkshire Pudding. Tom always said the only thing green he enjoyed eating was green M&M's. Tom was a talented carpenter, and he loved spending his time in his workshop creating anything from cradles to kitchen cabinets. Tom was also an avid boater and fisherman and always looked forward to his annual 1800-mile trek to Canada and back for over 25 years with his longtime fishing buddies. He enjoyed traveling to Europe and all around the U.S. while taking his famous "short cuts".
He is survived by his beloved companion of 28 years, Pamela Bradley, as well as his children Patricia Riggs (Heath), and Thomas Joseph Miller Jr. (Jennifer); and six grandchildren Caden, Finley, Patrick, Delaney, Donovan, and Brennen. He also is survived by his siblings Donald Miller Jr., Judy Skinner, Gretchen Day, and Susan Miller. Tom is preceded in death by his late wife, Lynn Miller, and his parents Donald and Elsa Miller. He leaves behind many loving relatives and friends.
A funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, December, 21 2022, at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church, 300 Dundee Rd, Pinehurst, NC 28374 .In lieu of flowers please send donations to FirstHealth Hospice and Palliative Care, 150 Applecross Rd, Pinehurst, NC 28374.
www.bolesfuneralhome.com
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Marty Burns
As youngsters, Tom and I were very close, in fact almost as if we were adopted brothers. I was told my dad and Tom’s mother grew up together and were inseparable as young children which was maybe why Tom and I shared the same early connection.
At ten, I was invited to travel to Southern California with Tom’s family by car which cemented our bond of friendship that remained strong thru our adulthood. I talked to Tom as he battled an unbeatable medical condition and he was as positive and comedic as was his nature. I always marveled at Tom’s genuine good-naturedness and true light-hearted approach to life. His booming laugh will always ring loud in my memory. I will miss Tom dearly. He will forever be in my thoughts, especially his uncanny way of making everyone around him feel better about life and just having a good time.