Stephen Earl Miller

Stephen “Steve” E. Miller

Steve Earl Miller, 69, of Venice FL, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 31, 2025.   Born December 28, 1955 in Hendersonville, NC, he was a son of the late Theodore “Ted” and Lula Miller.  

Steve was full of life, never met a stranger, was deeply devoted to his family, always put others first, and a Hero to many.  He enjoyed the simple pleasures in life.   He loved the outdoors, had a passion for gardening, doing good deeds for others, and had a special place in his heart for all creatures, especially his rescue dog, Kingston.  His smile, laugh and sense of humor were contagious.  Although stubborn at times, Steve was steadfast in his ways, holding firmly to his beliefs and principles.   Steve will be missed by so many however his legacy will live on throughout his family and the lives he touched.

Steve’s professional career began in Morganton, NC with the Morganton Department of Public Safety.   In 1984, Steve furthered his career with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation as a Special Agent until his retirement in 2004.   While serving in the SBI, in recognition of his dedicated service, Steve was honored with the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine Award by the Governor of North Carolina on June 1, 2004.

After retirement, Steve and Rita’s next chapter landed them in Murrells Inlet, SC where he came back out of retirement to work for the Horry County Police Department for 10 years.   Steve dedicated over 40 years in law enforcement to serving and protecting others.  After many wonderful years together in South Carolina, in September 2024 Steve and Rita made the decision to move to Florida where they soaked in the beauty and tranquility of Venice.   

Steve is preceded in death by his parents, Theodore and Lula Miller and granddaughter Alysa Daugherty.

Steve is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Rita Ross Miller; Brother Dr. Michael Miller and Beth (Wife); Daughters: Jessica Daugherty and Michael (Spouse), Cheryl Brackett and Chad (Spouse), and Tonya Williams.    Grandkids: Chase Brackett, Cydney Brackett, Cameron Daugherty, Miranda Daugherty, Brentani Detter and Kreg Fulbright (Sara), Leiton Young and 5 great grandchildren. Niece Caroline Miller and Nephew Bradley Miller.

In lieu of flowers, to honor Steve’s memory, contributions may be made to the following:

All 4 Paws https://all4pawssc.org/ or mailed to All 4 Paws, 708 Petigru Dr, Pawleys Island SC 29585.

Tidewell Hospice 220 Wexford Blvd, Venice FL 34293 / TidewellHospice.org

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 28, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Belin Memorial United Methodist Church / 4182 Hwy 17 Business, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576