John Michael Miller (66), of Gallatin, Tennessee, earned his angel wings on July 9, 2023.
He was fondly known to most as ‘Mike’ or ‘Poppa’. Mike was born on June 7, 1957, in Pensacola, Fla.
Mike is survived by his wife Donna Griggs and his biological, adopted, by marriage, and bonus children and grandchildren. Biological Daughter: Sarah Ann Miller (Austin) Wilkinson. Adopted Sons: Douglas Wayne Miller and Timothy Ross Miller. By Marriage Daughter: Deanna Kay Sanders (Bryant Taylor). Bonus kids: Jamie (Steve) Holt and Patrick (MaryLynn) Grifford. Grandchildren: Gavin Sanders, Landon Holt, Addy Holt, Cameron Taylor, Rome Miller, Cruz Miller, Daimeon Miller, Colbie Wilkinson, Leia Grifford, Alexis ‘Lexi’ Wilkinson, and Ash Grifford. His mother Bobbie Miller, his younger brothers, Randy (Laura) Miller and Steven (Susan) Miller.Along with several nieces and nephews. A very special nephew and niece-in-law: Josh and Crystal Miller. Mother-In-Law: Kay Griggs and his Brother-In-Law Glenn (Rose) Griggs.
Mike received the brain cancer diagnosis of Grade 4 Glioblastoma and had 2 major brain surgeries only 40 days prior to gaining his angel wings. Despite spending that time in the hospital or rehab center, the journey has certainly been emotional and filled with so many blessings for Mike and his family. Mike never lost his sense of humor. Throughout his entire journey, he smiled at his wife for pictures or stuck his tongue out for proof that pills were taken, giving staff a “thumbs up” when questioned, he cracked Poppa-isms (jokes) with his children, gave good hugs to his grandchildren, and even pulled some light-hearted pranks on the nurses. He had a great ability to make others smile and his sense of humor/Poppa-isms will be truly missed.
Mike retired from the AirForce with over 20 years of service. After that, Mike started a repair/home renovation business JSTD Services and then was a maintenance crew member for a few places in Biloxi, Mississippi. In 2017, he spent a few years redoing the home that he and his wife made in Gallatin, TN.
The family would like to thank the nursing staff, doctors, technicians, therapists and support staff at Sumner Regional, Tristar Centennial of Nashville, and the Gallatin Center of Rehab… for the care and support they have provided to Mike and family during this difficult time.
Mike’s family will host a small private celebration of life in late July 2023. The family asks that you continue to pray for the family and if you want to give something, please send it to your charity of choice in his honor.
Arrangements are being handled by Sellars Family Heritage at Gallatin and burial will be at Crestview Cemetery at a later date.
Online condolences may be submitted at familyheritagefh.com
For more obituaries visit https://sumnercountysource.com/obituaries/
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, of Gallatin, Tennessee, was born on June 7, 1957 and earned his angel wings on July 9, 2023.){kind=link}