James Sidney Miller, a beloved husband, father, and man of deep faith, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2026, in Greensboro, North Carolina, at the age of 91. He died at the hospital after a fall, surrounded by the love that defined his entire life. 

James was born on December 19, 1934, in Greensboro, North Carolina, to the late Gurney Miller and the late Doretha Terrell Miller. Greensboro was not just his birthplace but his lifelong home, the place where he built a life rich in love, purpose, and community. 

On June 28, 1954, James married the love of his life, Plassie Delois Rives, and together they built a family and a partnership that would span more than seven decades. Those who knew James best would tell you he was a great husband and father, a man whose love for his family was unwavering and whose warm smile and genuine kindness drew people in wherever he went. 

James was a hardworking man and a great provider for his family. He enjoyed a long career at Sears before retiring, but his ambitions never stopped there. He was an entrepreneur and a builder, always working with his hands and his mind to create something meaningful. Whether he was constructing something from the ground up or finding new ways to provide, James approached every endeavor with quiet determination and pride.

 When he wasn't working, James could be found enjoying the simple pleasures that made life sweet. He loved being outdoors, and he had a gift for making the best sweet potato pies you ever tasted. He was a puzzle enthusiast who also enjoyed playing solitaire on the computer, and he never missed the evening news or a good baseball game. James and Plassie also shared a love of travel, exploring new places and making memories together. 

James was a pillar of his church community. He was a faithful member of Rescue Temple, Fruit of the Spirit, and several other churches throughout his life. He served as a Deacon and a Sunday school teacher, roles he carried out with dedication and joy. Going to church was not just a Sunday tradition for James; it was the heartbeat of his life. His faith in Jesus Christ guided every decision, every relationship, and every day he was given.

 James is survived by his devoted wife, Plassie Miller; his children Jane Howard (David) of Gibsonville, NC, Dempsey Miller (Myra) of Huntersville, NC, Marvin Miller (Linda) of Upper Marboro, MD, Sherri Scotton (Marc) of Atlanta, GA, and Bruce Miller (Alma) of Charlotte, NC; and 11 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, 3 great great grandchildren and a host of loved step-grand and step-great grand children along with devoted friends whose lives he touched deeply. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gurney and Doretha Terrell Miller, his brother Norris Miller and his sisters Beatrice Bynum, Thelma Wells, Dorothy Rankin and Margaret Holt . 

As we celebrate the life of this remarkable man, we find comfort in the words of Matthew 6:9-14: "After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:" James trusted in that promise every day of his life, and now he rests in the loving arms of the God he served so faithfully.

A public viewing will be held on Thursday, July 23, 2026 at Hargett Funeral Service, Inc., 905 E. Market Street, Greensboro from 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm.

A homegoing celebration will be held on Friday, July 24, at HW Fields Cathedral, 1515 Willow Road, Greensboro; visitation with the family begins at 11:00 am followed by the service at 11:30 am. Interment will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery.