Richard Miller

On June 22, 2024, of Williamstown, NJ.  Age 83.  Beloved husband of the late Janet (nee Delekta) Miller. Devoted father of Tracey Latshaw (Steven), Marliese Filbert (David), and Deanna Emme (Michael). Loving grandfather of Richard Latshaw (Kristyna), Adam Filbert (Tianna), Jeana Newman (Drew), Maria Latshaw (Kyle), Ethan Filbert, and Janet Emme.  Dear brother of Robert Miller (Carol) and Joyanne Miller.  Loving son of the late Clarence and Helen (nee Gasperi) Miller.

From childhood, Rich was a family man, creating bonds with his siblings and cousins that would last throughout his life.  Their more recent times together were full of stories of shared meals, fun adventures, and family memories. Rich graduated from Vineland High School in 1959 where he was described as an all-around smart guy with many interests, skills, and talents. Rich always enjoyed movies, music, dancing, sports, trivia, and being involved in many school, social, and church groups and activities.  His time spent working in his father’s diner made him a capable chef who loved to collect and try new recipes.

Rich met Janet when they both attended Glassboro State College to major in junior high education.  She thought he was cute and noticed him right away at registration.  They married in 1964 and raised their family of three daughters in Burlington Township, NJ. where they also formed many lifelong friendships. Rich was the original “Girl Dad”, teaching his daughters how to partner dance, coaching their teams, supporting their school activities, sharing his cooking skills, and taking them shopping.

Rich spent his entire career in the Burlington Township School District.  Originally hired as a 7th grade math teacher, he spent most of his career as a guidance counselor working with middle and high school students.  He was named a Burlington County Guidance Counselor of the Year and introduced scheduling and course initiatives to help meet the needs of all students in the Township.  Rich’s retirement from his final role as District Director of Guidance concluded a career in which he not only expertly and compassionately advised thousands of students, but also successfully implemented the many changes in policies, practices, and technology introduced during his years as an educator.

Rich made sure to live out his retirement dreams. He moved to Brigantine, NJ, to live at the shore, Delaware, where he loved his backyard pool, and southern Florida, for the tropical climate and relaxing lifestyle. He loved his travels, especially his trips to the Winter Olympics in Norway, to explore his heritage in Italy, and to his favorite place, Hawaii.  He wandered, toured, and ate at good restaurants, while always making sure to be back with his family for his grandchildren’s special events and holidays.  His grandchildren have wonderful memories of PopPop and will remember him as a thoughtful and generous man, with a mischievous, fun-loving spirit.

Rich’s faith in God and his dedication to his Catholic beliefs were evident to all who knew him. He ensured his family attended mass weekly, and wherever he traveled, he would seek out the local Catholic church for Sunday services.  He was a Eucharistic Minister and a member of the Knights of Columbus.  He was a role model of faith for his family and would share stories and items he collected on pilgrimages to the holy sites he often visited.

Family and friends are invited to attend his viewing Thursday 10:30 am – 12:00 pm at St. Charles Borromeo Roman Catholic Church, 176 Stagecoach Road, Washington Twp.  Mass of Christian Burial 12:15 pm.  Interment Berlin Cemetery, Berlin

In honor of Richard’s life, in lieu of flowers or other acts of sympathy his family would encourage any donations be made to NJ SEEDS.