Willis R. Miller, 85, of Newton, died on Monday (April 4, 2011) at his home.
He was born on Oct. 25, 1925, in Newton, the son of Herman Ray and Ruth S. Hooley Miller. Willis was raised in Newton and attended Newton High School until enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1943 to serve during World War II.
Upon returning to Newton after being discharged from the military, he was united in marriage to Alice L. Drinkwater on May 26, 1946.
Willis was a brakeman and conductor for the Santa Fe Railroad for 40 years before retiring in 1985.
Willis was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion, and he enjoyed playing golf and woodworking.
Survivors include his wife, Alice of the home in Newton; three daughters, Linda Hamm and husband, Bill of Walton, Marilyn Whittington of El Dorado and Marsha Huffman and husband, Doug of Wichita; one brother, Donald Miller of Moundridge; one sister, Lola McCullough of Denton, Texas; six grandchildren; and seven grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Lester and Kenneth; and one sister, Wilma Hunt.
Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home, where the family will receive friends from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Memorial services will be at 2 p.m. Friday at Eastside United Methodist Church in Newton.
A memorial has been established with Eastside United Methodist Church and Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice. Contributions may be sent to Broadway Colonial Funeral Home, 120 E. Broadway, Newton, KS 67114.
Condolences may be left at www.broadwaycolonialfh.com.
Arrangements are by Broadway Colonial Funeral Home in Newton.
