Clair Junior "Jim" Miller

Clair "Jim" Junior Miller lived a life defined by dedication, adventure, and a deep love for family and country. Born in 1933 in Wenksville, Pennsylvania to Melvin Guy Miller and Mearl Grace Black Miller, Jim grew up on a dairy farm alongside his eight siblings. Those early years instilled in him the strong work ethic and appreciation for simple joys that would guide him throughout his life.

After graduating from high school, Jim answered the call to serve his nation by joining the United States Air Force, where he proudly served for four years during the Korean War era. During that time, he found a love of travel while he served at Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany. Following his military service, he pursued higher education at the University of Tennessee, where he met the love of his life, Glenevieve Yvonne Swearengin. After graduation, he began a long and meaningful career with the Social Security Administration. In that role, he was known for his diligence, integrity, and genuine desire to help others-qualities that reflected his belief in hard work and personal responsibility. Jim often encouraged younger generations to pursue their dreams through education and perseverance, advice he lived by himself.

Family was at the heart of Jim's world. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife and his siblings Mary, William, Shirley, and Owen Miller. He is lovingly remembered by his sons, Steven Miller and Larry Miller; his daughter-in-law, Monique Miller; his siblings Eddie Miller, Carolyn Weikert, Donald Miller, and Robert Miller; and his close friends Grace, Shari, and Elizabeth. Jim was a devoted father and father-in-law whose guidance, wisdom, and steady presence left a lasting impression on those closest to him. Among his many lessons was the importance of working hard so that life could be filled with meaningful experiences and opportunities to explore the world.

An enthusiastic traveler and outdoorsman, Jim found great joy in nature and adventure. He hiked and camped frequently, especially in the Cumberland Gap and the Great Smoky Mountains National Parks-places that held special meaning for him. Over the course of his lifetime, he visited more than 30 national parks across the United States and traveled to numerous countries ranging from Sri Lanka and China to Costa Rica and Morocco. His love of exploration greatly inspired his family and reflected his belief that life was meant to be experienced fully.

Jim will be remembered for his steady character, generous advice, and adventurous spirit. His legacy lives on in the values he shared, the journeys he encouraged, and the memories treasured by all who knew him.

A graveside funeral service will be held on February 7, 2026, at 3:00 PM at Lynnhurst Cemetery, 2300 Adair Drive, Knoxville, Tennessee, followed by a private reception. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim's name may be made to the Pat Summitt Foundation or the Friends of the Smokies.