Gary D. Miller

Gary D. Miller, 87, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away on May 4, 2024. He was born on June 3, 1936, in Warsaw, Indiana, to parents, Clarence C. Miller and Icy Dora Miller-Grossnickle.

A 1954 graduate of Warsaw High School, Gary honed his early passions for creativity and athletics.   As a Warsaw Tiger. Gary excelled in Pole Vault, competing at the state level.   With the support and encouragement of the Clark family, he pursued his academic aspirations at Ball State University. There, he completed his undergraduate studies and attained a master's degree in fine arts, solidifying his expertise in artistic expression.

On June 25, 1977, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Gary married the love of his life, Barbara A. (Long) Miller, sharing a devoted and loving 46 years together.  

Gary’s career in art education spanned several decades, beginning at Elwood High School, and then dedicating over 32 years to shaping young minds at Pike High School. As the esteemed art department chair, he imparted his knowledge and wisdom to countless students, nurturing their creativity and instilling in them a love for the arts that would last a lifetime.

Among his proudest accomplishments was his involvement in various community organizations. A former member of Northwood Christian Church, South Grove Men's Club, and Noblesville Elks Lodge #576, Gary demonstrated his unwavering commitment to serving others and making a positive impact wherever he went.

Beyond his professional achievements, Gary was a man of diverse interests and talents. As a sports enthusiast, he found joy in golf and tennis. Gary organized his friends for a tennis tournament, The Miller Open.  He participated for several years in the South Grove Senior Four Ball tournament, bringing home several trophies.  His creative spirit also extended to woodworking, where he crafted pieces that reflected his meticulous attention to detail and love for craftsmanship.   Additionally, Gary found solace in the great outdoors, finding peace and tranquility working in his yard. He enjoyed family trips to Florida and Northern Michigan.  

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Barbara A. Miller; daughter, Sarah Miller; son, Jason (Zaira) Miller; grandchildren, Alice and Emma Miller; daughter, Amy Bishop; stepbrother, Dick Clark (Helen), and many other family members and friends.   

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Raymond E. Miller, Clarence C. Miller, and Ned Roger Miller; and sister, Mary Jane Miller.

A Memorial Gathering for Gary will be from 12pm-2pm on Saturday, May 11, 2024, with a Memorial Service immediately following at 2pm, at Flanner Buchanan – Oaklawn Memorial Gardens (Conner Suite) – 9700 Allisonville Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46250.   

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name may be made to Northwood Christian Church (4550 Central Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46205); Boys Town (PO Box 8000, Boys Town, NE 68010); Wounded Warrior Project (P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675); or The Lupus Foundation of America (2121 K St. NW, Suite 200, Washington DC, 20037).