Joseph Charles “Joe” Miller, Jr., 54, of Franklin passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, November 28, 2024, at his home.
Joe was born on October 16, 1970, in rural Howard County, the son of J.C. and LaVaughn Miller. He graduated from New Franklin High School in 1989 and attended the University of Missouri. Joe farmed with his father and ran a successful Pioneer seed business. JC Miller Seed shirts could be seen all over Howard and Cooper counties and there are pictures of people wearing his shirts in many other states, even as far away as Hawaii.
Joe enjoyed duck hunting, fishing and gardening. His garden was always bountiful, and he made gallons of salsa every summer. Joe was a skilled carpenter and woodworker and built many beautiful pieces for his family and friends. He also loved to bake and brought his signature cheesecake and sweet potato pie to every family dinner.
Joe was a loving brother and uncle and a devoted friend. He was a great storyteller, a practical joker and always ready with a witty or sarcastic comment. Joe always had a collectible coin in his pocket to give to kids when he’d see them. He was dedicated to supporting the community, especially the 4-H and FFA kids and New Franklin Elementary.
He was preceded in death by his parents, J.C. and LaVaughn. He is survived by his sister Julie (Tim) Kueckelhan of Boonville, niece Morgan (Chris) Hawley of Kingsville, MO, nephews Jared Kueckelhan and Justin (MaKenzie Twenter) Kueckelhan of Boonville and great-nephews Jace and Steele Hawley of Kingsville.
There will be a visitation for Joe on Thursday, December 5, from 9:00 – 11:00 am at St. Johns United Church of Christ, 14191 Billingsville Road, Boonville, MO, with a funeral service immediately following. Burial will be in Clark’s Chapel Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Clark’s Chapel Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the direction of Howard Funeral Home, 1397 Ashley Rd., Boonville, Mo 65233 (660) 882-3381. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.howardfh.com.