Denis Wellington Miller

1947 - 2025

Denis Wellington Miller passed away peacefully on the morning of September 27, 2025. He was 78.

Born on March 27, 1947, in Philadelphia, PA, Denis was the second of five boys born to the late Arthur and Madeline Miller. From an early age, he stood out for his dedication and drive, especially on the little league field and basketball court at the local YMCA. He was not one to seek attention, but he surely loved bringing up the fact he earned a perfect four-year attendance award in high school and mastered his jump shot while playing for the basketball team at Roxborough High School.

Denis went on to earn his undergraduate degree from LaSalle University and an MBA from Temple University, all while maintaining his trademark work ethic and humility. In 1969, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and proudly served his country, stationed in Panama.

On April 15, 1972, Denis married Lynn Nelson, who grew up just around the corner from his family home and became his lifelong partner. As parents, they were a united and loving team, raising six children - beginning in Philadelphia and continuing in Germantown, TN, where they moved in 1982.

Denis began his professional journey as an auditor with the Philadelphia Federal Reserve and never stopped working. For the past many years, he found not just a job but a cherished work family at Threlkeld, Threlkeld and Omer.

A lifelong Philadelphia sports fan, Denis rooted passionately for all their teams but most especially the Eagles and Phillies and also embraced his adopted hometown teams - the Memphis Grizzlies and Tigers. However, nothing brought him more joy than cheering on his children and grandchildren in their own games, recitals, and milestones. His presence on the sidelines and in the stands was a constant source of strength and pride for his family.

Denis was preceded in death by his parents and his older brother, Bruce. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Lynn; their six children Kristen Behan (Keith), Jodi Barron (Matt), Brad Miller (Melissa), Corey Miller (Maria), Andrea Acton (Travis) and Brittany Lubeck (Benn); and 18 grandchildren: Ryan, Brett, Tyler, Luke, Shane, Kelly, Mia, Patrick, Dylan, Liam, Max, Lance, Owen, Audrey, Cameron, Holly, Ella and Lucy. He is also survived by his brothers Robert Miller (Pat), Jim Miller (Marita) and Chris Miller (Theresa).

His legacy is one of unwavering love, commitment, and encouragement – a man who showed up, who supported, who worked hard and who deeply loved his family.

In honor of Denis' life and values, donations may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (t2t.org), St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or a charity of your choice.

He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

A celebration of Denis' life will be held on Thursday, October 2nd, at the Church of the Holy Spirit, 2300 Hickory Crest Drive, Memphis, TN 38119. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 12:00 p.m. and a reception thereafter.