J. Charles Miller

J. Charles Miller Sr., 90 Of Media J. Charles Miller Sr., 90, died Wednesday, March 7, 2012 at home in Media. Mr. Miller was born May 28, 1921 in Camden, NJ. Growing up during the Great Depression was difficult for him but it gave him a deep appreciation for the simple things in life, most of which was his love of Nature. He enjoyed all facets of nature including wildlife and the beauty of earth and sea. As a boy he enjoyed playing sports especially Baseball in which he was an excellent pitcher. As an older teen, music occupied much of his time as a drummer playing "Big Band" swing music. None of this overshadowed the fact Charles was an excellent student graduating third in his class. He enjoyed studying and learning something new every day. An attitude which continued throughout his life. Not long after graduating High School, World War II started and Charles did not hesitate to enlist in the Navy. He served in both the Atlantic and Pacific campaigns. He was an original crew member (Plank owner) of the Battleship New Jersey which to this day is the most decorated ship in the U. S. Navy's history. During the war, on leave from the Navy, he married his childhood sweetheart Thelma who became his partner in life for sixty six years. Upon leaving the Navy at the end of the war he started work as a Lithograph artist which became his career for thirty nine years. His last employer of twenty five years was Beck Engraving of Philadelphia, PA. After retirement Charles returned to his love of art. Painting in all forms, whether it was oils, acrylics or watercolors was a great form of relaxation and accomplishment. He studied for three years under Randy Exxon at Swarthmore College. His meticulous style amazed many and won him awards from the Miniature Art Society. Charles achieved all his goals in life: To be a decent, clean living man. To be a good Christian and good citizen. Most importantly raise a family with love and provide a good home. He will be missed by all. Charles is the husband of the late Thelma Selby Miller. Survivors: John C. (Mary) Miller of Media, J. Charles (Ogretta) Miller Jr. of Springhill, FL and Susan M. Allen of Wilmington, DE; grandchildren John M. Miller of Media, PA, Scott Miller of Ft. Collens, Co, Jennifer Allen of Wilkes Barre, PA, Andrew Miller of Springhill, FL and Alex Miller of Newark, DE; 5 great-grandchildren. Memorial Service Saturday at 11 AM Minshall Shropshire-Bleyler Funeral Home, Middletown (Rte#352) & Knowlton Roads, Middletown Twp., Media, PA 19063. Visitation Saturday after 10 AM at the funeral home. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Assoc., P.O. Box 15120, Chicago, IL 60693 or Alzheimer Assoc., 399 Market St., Suite 102, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Online Condolences: www.msbfh.com