James Thornton Miler

1928 - 2024

James Thornton Miler

December 23, 1928 - January 14, 2024

Modesto, CALIFORNIA - James (Jim), lovingly known as Grandpa or Big Jim, passed away peacefully after a sudden illness with his family by his side. He was born in St. Helena to James M. and Hattie Miler, one of eight children. His family lived in Napa then moved to Modesto when he started elementary school. Jim enjoyed growing up in Modesto when it was a small town where everyone knew each other, no one ever locked their doors, and a deal was sealed with your word and a handshake. He often reminisced of escapades hanging out at Burge's Drive In and going to local dance halls. As a young man he trained as a boxer, enjoyed running, and played golf. He relished traveling solo, going from town to town, meeting new people and exploring new places. After serving in the National Guard, he held several jobs in his youth and was especially skilled in all types of craftsmanship and construction. He would go on to complete many construction jobs for friends and family well into his eighties. Jim was respected for his exceptional work ethic, a trait instilled into his children and grandchildren.

Jim married Dorothy Turner Vogelman and soon they welcomed James W. (Jimmy). Jim adopted Dorothy's boys, Lance and Scott and they raised their family in Modesto while operating Boyd-Miler Rest Home and later Miler's Inn Cocktails. Jim and Dorothy enjoyed a loving marriage, dedicated to raising their sons and supporting them in every way they could. Jim and Dorothy were especially blessed when their three grandchildren were born. Their grandchildren fulfilled their lives in a way they had never known.

Dorothy passed in 2010 and Jim often said he missed his "little woman." They are now reunited for all heavenly eternity.

After Dorothy's passing, Jim devoted the remainder of his life to his three grandchildren. He dedicated himself to being present for his beloved Alexa, Tristan, and Gianna. Grandpa drove them to and from school, attended every school event, athletic practice, game, and tournament often as driver and chaperone-in-chief if their parents were working and joining later at game time. Jim was known to their friends, coaches, and spectators alike and was called Grandpa by all.

Jim's final years were spent enjoying life's simple pleasures. He loved traveling to Santa Barbara where he would visit the beach, take long walks enjoying the natural beauty surrounding him, and spend time with his grandchildren. He was happiest when he was able to attend family gatherings, celebrations, explore, eat out, tell stories and jokes, take long walks wherever he was, and join in on family adventures, the latest being a trip to the Grand Canyon and loving every minute of it.

Grandpa lived a long, happy and fulfilled life. At the end, he knew how much his family loved him, and his family knew how much he loved them. God blessed us all with precious time together.

In accordance with his wishes, his ashes will be scattered in Death Valley National Park.

James is survived by his sons Lance, Scott (Lola), and James W. and daughter-in-law Lupe Miler; and grandchildren Alexa (Aaron), Tristan, and Gianna Miler.