Russ passed away on January 21, 2023, in Newport News, Virginia. He was born of William Monroe Miller and Edith Adelaide Miller on January 16, 1945. He held fond memories of growing up in the Olde Wythe neighborhood in Hampton. He attended Randolph Macon Academy and later transferred to Newport News High School where he graduated in 1965. Russ joined the U.S. Army in 1967. During his time in the Army, Russ was stationed at Fort Ord on Monterey Bay, CA. Russ thoroughly enjoyed the Bay Area in the late 1960's and shared these experiences for decades to follow.

Russ loved his family and his friends. He made many lifelong friends while working in retail jewelry sales. His career spanned from store management in Northern Virginia to floor sales at various companies on the Peninsula; Russ could sell, and sell well, because he built relationships. Connecting with people and building relationships was what he loved and why he loved sales. A devoted father, raising his son on his own (before it was fashionable), Russ was a strong believer in Family First. This was a core value he carried throughout his life. As single parent life had its stresses, Russ's favorite place to relax was the beach. The beach was Russ' happy place. Over the years many fun filled weeks were spent in the Outer Banks with his "adopted" family the Harmans. In his later years he was able to spend 16 months in Okinawa with his son and granddaughters. While in Okinawa, Russ made friends, worked for AAFES, enjoyed the "Island Life" and local music.  Russ adored his granddaughters, treasured every minute with them and missed them every day he was back home.

Russ leaves behind his son, Ashley Monroe Miller and granddaughters, Alia Miyabi Miller, Alisha Mai Miller, and Alina Mei Miller, all of Okinawa Japan. He will be missed by his family and many friends.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 pm on February 20, 2023, at R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home officiated by Rev. John LeGault. In lieu of flowers, consider making a contribution to the Peninsula Food Bank.