Preston Miller

Richard “Preston” Miller, 56, of Jonesboro passed from this life on Tuesday April 3, 2012 at the Marina Del Rey Hospital in California.

Preston was born September 25, 1955 in Jonesboro to the late Jerald and Glenda Richie Miller. He was a lifelong sports enthusiast who loved the spirit and competition of the game, whether he was a participant on the field or as a spectator in the stands. He was a member of the Jonesboro High School class of 1973, where he was a standout athlete in multiple sports and All-State football player. After high school he attended the University of Arkansas later transferring to Arkansas State University, before enlisting in the Army and serving as part of a Special Forces airborne unit. He worked at the family owned business Miller's Exxon in Jonesboro for many years. Preston was a loving and caring husband, father, uncle, and friend, with an inner strength that family and friends felt and relied upon throughout his life. He was his children’s biggest fan, spending countless hours working with, encouraging and motivating his children to be the best they could be in every aspect of their life. His peaceful loving soul will be missed but never forgotten.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his sister, Laura Osborn.

He is survived by his wife Diane of 33 years; a young son Jackson Miller of the home; a daughter Jami Miller Winkler and husband Austin of Playa Vista, CA; one brother, Dennis Miller and his wife Malinda of Jonesboro; and a host of other family and friends.

Visitation and Funeral Services will be held at Emerson Funeral Home within the Memorial Chapel. Visitation will be held Thursday night from 5-8 p.m.; the Funeral service will be Friday at 2:00 p.m. with Patty Sword officiating. Burial will follow at Rutherford Cemetery.

Online Registry: www.emersonfuneralhome.com