Joseph Donald "Donnie" Miller

1938 - 2025

Joseph Donald "Donnie" Miller, of Centreville, Maryland, passed away peacefully on September 11th, 2025, at his home. He was 87 years old.

Born on April 30, 1938, in Centreville, Donnie was the son of the late Joseph P. Miller and Catherine Middleton Miller. A 1956 graduate of Centreville High School, he was a proud member of the basketball team that won the state championship during his senior year. He went on to graduate from Washington College, where he was an active member of the Kappa Alpha fraternity.

In January of 1960, Donnie married the love of his life, June Laird. Together, they built a marriage rooted in devotion, laughter, and faith. One of Donnie's favorite joys was sitting down to June's wonderful home cooking, which he loved as much as he loved her. A lifelong member of Centreville Methodist Church, Donnie lived his faith through service, kindness, and a deep love of family.

Donnie lived a life of service to his community. For more than 30 years, he taught in Kent County schools, shaping the lives of countless students. For a decade, he also worked as a lifeguard at Conquest Beach in Centreville, where many young swimmers felt safer under his watch. In sports, he became a fixture across the Eastern Shore as a respected basketball referee and baseball umpire, serving through the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials. His dedication earned him induction into both the Queen Anne's County High School Sports Hall of Fame and the Eastern Shore Baseball Hall of Fame.

A man of many talents, Donnie ran his own woodworking business, Country Checkers, creating custom checkerboards admired for their craftsmanship. He was also known as the town's go-to handyman-always willing to lend a helping hand to friends, neighbors, and family. Many remember his loyal companion, Tucker, his big white German Shepherd, who loved riding alongside Donnie in his work van.

At home, Donnie was happiest tending to his yard, pool, and pets-or cheering for his Ravens and Orioles. But above all, he adored his family. When his great niece, Madison Green, needed him most, he lovingly took her in and raised her as his own. Later, he found immense joy in every moment with his great-great nephew, Sheppard Forrest. To his family, Donnie was more than an uncle-he was a father figure, a mentor, and a source of unwavering love.

Donnie is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, June Laird Miller; his sister, Judy Miles (Jack); his brother-in-law, Jack Laird (Robin); his nieces, Jennifer Laird (Richie), Kaye Einbrod (Kip), Andrea Harrison (Scott), Dawn, Suzanne, and Suellen; his great niece, Madison Green (Nicholas); and his great-great nephew, Sheppard Forrest. He also leaves behind many beloved cousins, extended family, and dear friends. He was predeceased by his parents; his brother, Benjamin; and his infant son, William.