Walter "Sonny" P. Miller, Jr.

Walter Preston Miller, Jr., 86

Youngstown - Walter Preston Miller, Jr., 86, passed away on Saturday, December 7, 2019 at Hospice of the Valley, Hospice House surrounded by his loving family.

Walter known by his family and friends as "Sonny" was born on November 7, 1933 in Struthers, the son of the late Walter and Grace (Crawford) Miller, Sr.

Sonny enlisted in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict. He served on the USS Tidewater (AD-31) Shenandoah Class Destroyer, where he earned the National Defense Service Ribbon.

After returning from the war, Sonny worked as a Foreman for a paint manufacturing company for 40 years, retiring in 1995.

He was a member of American Satin Rabbit Breeders Association and ran the open rabbit barn at the Canfield Fair for over 15 years. He also enjoyed gardening and playing his bagpipes with a local bagpipe band performing in many parades.

Sonny is survived by his wife and best friend of 40 years, the former Shirley A. Roth, whom he married on November 22, 1979; four children, Deborah A. Gallagher of Struthers, Walter P. Miller, III of Warren, Cathy L. (Rex) Glasgow of Pataskala, OH, and Fredrick P. Miller of Florida; three grandchildren, Michael G. Mrosko of Youngstown, Melissa A. (Charles) McCudden of Struthers and John F. Heydle of Austintown; a brother, James R. Miller of Campbell; brother-in-laws, Robert C. (Carol) Roth Jr. of Myrtle Beach, SC and William A. Roth of Austintown; many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews; and his four legged friend Rocky.

Besides his parents, Sonny was preceded in death by a son-in-law, George Gallagher; a daughter-in-law, Georgine Miller; three sisters, infant Marion Miller, Jean (Rocco) Gatto, and Beverly Caputo; sister-in-laws, MaryAnn Miller and Evelyn Roth.

Per Sonny's wishes, there were private funeral services on Tuesday, December 10, 2019 at Davidson-Becker Funeral Home in Struthers with military honors at Brunstetter Cemetery in Austintown. His great nephew, Pastor Jared Woodward officiated.

There were no calling hours.

The family requests that material tributes take the form of contributions to Hospice of the Valley, Hospice House, 9803 Sharrott Road, Poland, Ohio 44514 in memory of Walter (Sonny).

Sonny was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He was honored to serve in the U.S. Navy and enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by all who loved him.

Condolences may be sent at www.beckerobits.com.