Vernon Roy Miller of St. James, Missouri passed away Monday, February 10, 2025 at his home surrounded by his loved ones. Vernon was 86 years of age.

Vernon, the son of Alex and Luella Casper Miller, was born January 31, 1939 in Gate, Oklahoma. He was united in marriage to Mary Alice Fritts on June 2, 1957 in Toronto, Kansas.

Vernon is survived by his wife, Mary of St. James, Missouri; two daughters, Pam Keeney and husband, Dave of St. James, Missouri and Debra Ann Rinehart and husband, Larry of St. James, Missouri; grandchildren: Kristen DeLuca (Dominic), Stephanie Mead (Steve), CJ Rinehart (Cody Spencer), and Shauna Evans and husband, Alex; and great-grandchildren: Caden DeLuca, Addison DeLuca, Elaina DeLuca; Sydney Mead, and Sophie Mead.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, James Miller; and sister, Sharon Miller.

Vernon was a quiet, patient man who loved learning about nature and the workings of the physical world around him. He met the love of his life, Mary, when he moved to Kansas at the age of twelve. While he was attending college at Kansas State pursuing a degree in nuclear physics they married, and they began a beautiful relationship of teamwork that would flourish for 67 years. Mary worked during the day while Vernon attended classes. While Vernon worked on homework in the evenings, Mary typed his papers. Through the years, he and Mary complimented each other as they raised their family and built their home on a firm foundation. His relationship with God was important to him, and he set aside time daily to nurture his walk with God. He shared his time and his talents in many aspects of his Christian life. He was an elder, teacher, trustee, and friend. His unwavering faith was an inspiration to those who knew him, and his acts of kindness and dedication touched many lives.

He loved taking advantage of every day that he was granted; he enjoyed keeping busy whether it be gardening, fishing, hunting, woodworking, or golfing. Each fall, he looked forward to deer hunting with his friends. He loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in the fun pursuits of their adventures. As well, he liked teaching his grandchildren how to do the things that he loved. He spent many hours crafting pieces of furniture for many family members; in fact, he had just finished building a kitchen island for his granddaughter.

His career led him and Mary to Rolla, Missouri where he stared his job with the Bureau of Mines. He worked as a physicist and metalurgist for the bureau from 1960-1994.

Vernon's gentle spirit and his devotion to family and friends will never be forgotten.

Graveside services will be 11:00 AM Friday, February 14, 2025 at St. James Cemetery with Bro. Rick Mosher officiating. Pallbearers will be Kerry Wynn, Dominic DeLuca, Steve Mead, Trae Tucker, CJ Rinehart, and Alex Evans. Honorary pallbearers will be Bob Rivers, Randy Rinehart, and Bob Diestelkamp.

Memorials may be made to Phelps Health Hospice.

Online condolences may be shared at jonesfunerals.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of Jones Funeral Home in St. James, Missouri.

Phelps Health Hospice
1500 Hwy 72, Rolla, MO 65401
Tel: 1-573-364-2425
Web: http://https://phelpshealth.org/conditions-treatments/phelps-health-homecare-and-hospice/hospice