Eric David Miller

1945 - 2025

Eric David Miller, beloved husband, father and grandfather, departed this life on September 23, 2025 Born in Maryland in 1945, he grew up in Georgia, and was preceded in death by his parents, Sidney S. & Carolyn P. Miller, and his older brother, Sid, Jr. He is survived by his soulmate and loving wife of almost 59 years, Christine Carroll Miller, who supported and cared for him during his battle with Parkinson's, his children, Mark Andrew Miller and Craig David Miller (Melanie), his grandchildren, Daniel, Ted and Leo, and his brothers, Phil (Laura), Mike (Betty) and Walt (Connie) and his "other brother" JW Whipple (Martha).

Eric graduated with a Bachelor of Industrial Engineering from Georgia Tech in 1967, at the height of the Vietnam War. He enlisted in the United States Air Force where he was assigned to work as a writer. He became editor of The Missileer, which was named the number one Class IV Official newspaper in the Air Force. He earned his Master's of Business Administration from Florida State University in 1975. He worked in the pharmaceutical industry first at McGaw Laboratories in Georgia and California, and later retired from Abbott Laboratories in 2012 as a Senior Engineer in Rocky Mount, North Carolina.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Eric was deeply committed to his community. He served on the Board of Directors of the United Way Tar River Region and the Association for Learning, Disabled, and Handicapped, where he served as President for a number of years. He was driven by a desire to advocate for those with disabilities, a passion inspired by his brother, Sid's, journey with Down Syndrome. In recognition of his selfless dedication, Eric was honored with the North Carolina Award for Outstanding Volunteer Service in 2004 by Governor Michael F. Easley.

Eric was a longtime and faithful member of Englewood United Methodist Church where he sang in the choir and played hand bells. He also served in various capacities, including Lay Leader, President of Methodist Men and longtime member of Wesleyan Friendship Class. He was passionate about and supported public radio and TV and recognized the importance of accessible and unbiased media and the dissemination of information for the public good. Commitment to science-based solutions for global challenges reflected his forward-thinking and compassionate nature. Making a difference was important to Eric. This led to his involvement with the Sierra Club, to advocate and educate on environmental protection.

Eric's family deeply appreciates the healthcare and hospice employees, and many friends, neighbors and church members who eased his last days. He will be missed and his memory will be cherished by so many.

The family will host services for Eric on Monday, September 29th at 11 a.m. at Englewood United Methodist Church, and available through streaming services on Facebook. In lieu of flflowers, the family would prefer a donation be made in his name to the United Way Tar River Region or the Sierra Club.

Arrangements by Davis-Little Funerals, Rocky Mount. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.davislittlefunerals.com.