David F. Miller Sr.

MILLER David F Miller Sr. 86, passed away on November 19, 2015 at his home on Amelia Island FL. He was surrounded and supported by his loving family, close friends and caregivers. David was born in Jacksonville, FL. He attended Landon High School and graduated from the University of Florida in 1951. David was married for 55 years to Gloria Parks Miller until her death in 2007. They had four children: David Jr born in 1954, followed by triplet girls Jane, Clara, and Elizabeth in 1956. Following two years of service in the Air Force, David began a 37 year career with JC Penney. He retired from Penny's in 1990 as Chief Operating Officer and Vice Chairman. He and Gloria then moved to Amelia Island FL, where he began his second career in entrepreneurship and community service. David's life principles were guided by the importance of family, the Golden Rule and his belief in service above self. The Nation's birth in liberty and freedom plus a commitment to education were his causes. His financial support and leadership led to the founding of the David F Miller Center for Retailing Education and Research at the University of Florida in 1991. He also led the initiative to form a Boys and Girls Club in Nassau County Fl, named the Miller Freedom Center. David was an original University of Florida Bull Gator and an avid supporter of the Orange and Blue. He was a devoted son and a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was always there for the many who sought his insightful counsel. We were blessed by his wisdom, care, and generosity. He is survived by son and daughter-in-law David and Kathy Miller of Amelia Island their children Elizabeth and James, daughter Clara Miller of Amelia Island, daughter and son-in-law Jane and Kenneth MacDonald of Greenville, NC and their children Gloria Hart and husband Michael, Clara and Elizabeth, and daughter and son-in-law Elizabeth and Ben Hynson of Cary NC and their children Warren and wife Janie, and Nicklaus. He is survived by his brother Robert Miller, wife Judy and sister-in-law Carolyn Miller of Jacksonville. A memorial service will be held at the Amelia Island Plantation Chapel at 4:00PM on Monday December 7, 2015 followed by a Celebration of his life at Walker's Landing on the Amelia Island Plantation. Memorial gifts may be expressed by contributing to the two causes David deeply cared for: Boys & Girls Clubs of Nassau County Foundation, Inc. (PO Box 16003, Fernandina Beach Fl. 32035) or University of Florida, Miller Center for Retailing Education and Research (David F Miller Center for Retailing, Warrington College of Business, Stuzin Hall Room 100, PO Box 117153 Gainesville Fl 32611-7153) Please share her Life Legacy and leave your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com OXLEY - HEARD FUNERAL DIRECTORS