Photo courtesy of Pitts Funeral Home of Aliquippa
Sep 20, 1937 - Sep 28, 2025
This is also my grandfather and I had the pleasure of meeting him at my Aunt Mildreds. My mother's name is Sharon LaVelle (Miller) his oldest. We would like to share our condolences as well.
Zetta Hayes
October 06, 2025 | Decatur, AL | Grandchild
Obituary
Deacon Harold Miller Jr. was born on September 20, 1937, to Rousseau Jr. and Pennie P. Miller in Hartselle, Alabama. Harold, affectionately known as “Top”, carried the warmth and spirit of his Southern roots with him throughout his remarkable journey.
Harold’s athletic prowess was evident early on as he played high school football, showcasing the same discipline and dedication that would define his professional life. In his early twenties, he traded Alabama soil for the steel-tinged air of Pennsylvania. After attending trade school, he would begin working as a welder, becoming one of the few African American welders in the Pittsburgh area. He went on to become a Master Welder and his work included many current buildings, bridges and the Church in the Round. Harold was a true craftsman. He built a lasting legacy through his work at US Steel, Dravo Corporation and finally, American Bridge, from which he retired. Even in retirement, his hands remained skilled, as he worked as a dedicated contractor for Alcoa. Whatever he put his hands to, he did well - a testament to his incredible work ethic and commitment to excellence.
In the heart of the bustling steel industry, he met and married Barbara Jean Nelms. From their union came seven children, Devalle, DeLisa, Denine, David, Deanna, Debbie, and Dawn. His faith was the bedrock of his life, demonstrated by his attendance at the Church in the Round, his membership at Coraopolis Christian Fellowship Church of God in Christ under the guidance of Bishop E.M. Thorpe and finally his faithful years at Northside Institutional Church of God in Christ, where he served as a Deacon.
Beyond the mill, Harold was a man of diverse passions. He found rhythm in music - the deep currents of blues, the harmonies of jazz, and the uplifting message of gospel. He loved to fish, but his greatest passion was farming and gardening. He was known throughout Aliquippa for his produce, which he grew, picked and sold. He was specifically known for his greens and cabbage. In the kitchen, his excellence continued. A magnificent cook and baker, he was known for his homemade chicken stuffing, his unique greens and kale mix and his legendary desserts - the million dollar pies, cobblers and fruit pies - always needing to have something sweet to complete a meal.
Harold also established a strong reputation as a car detailer, building a loyal clientele with his meticulous work. But whether in the garden, the kitchen or the garage, His presence was always marked by his signature style - he loved dressing, looking and smelling good.
Harold “Top” Miller Jr. was a pillar of strength, a source of wisdom, and fountain of love for his
family and community, both in Pittsburgh and Alabama. His dedication to his craft, his love for family and his indelible spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who called him father, granddad, uncle, cousin, brother, deacon and friend.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Rousseau Jr. and Pennie P. Miller, his siblings, Betty Jean Miller (Harold), AnnieLouise Miller (Henry), Alfred James Miller (Dorothy), Mildred Juanita Turney (Fletcher), his ex-wife Barbara J. Miller, his son David D. Miller, son-in-law Wayne E. Coleman Sr. and grandson Domini’que M. Miller.
He leaves to cherish his memory, his children Harold Devalle Miller, Knoxville, TN, DeLisa M. Coleman, Pittsburgh, PA, Denine Miller, Pittsburgh, PA, Deanna Miller, Cleveland, OH, Debbie Miller, Painesville, OH and Dawn Miller, Moon Township, PA, his grandchildren Jovan (Chelsea) Miller, Greensburg, TN, Dante Miller, Greensburg, TN, Ashley (Bryant) Reid, Monaca, PA, Robert Miller, Cleveland, OH, Wayne (Kortney) Coleman Jr., Pittsburgh, PA, Andrea (Emmanuel) Culmer, Pittsburgh, PA, Henry Miller, Cleveland, OH, Shawn Elmore, Cleveland, OH, Colin Miller, Cleveland, OH, Thayshai M. Coleman, Pittsburgh, PA, Kira Miller, Detroit, MI, Keisha Miller, Pittsburgh, PA, Devonte Hall, Cleveland, OH and his first cousin Patricia Miller-Akins (Charles), Chattanooga, TN. He also leaves to cherish his memory thirteen (13) great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, family, community and church family.
“A prepared soldier - gone home”
- Mother Sharon Gans
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