CHATHAM – Ronald G. Miller, 86, passed away Thursday, January 8, 2026, at Springfield Memorial Hospital.

He was born April 20, 1939, to Byron and Velma E. (Grant) Miller. He was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather, Velma and Ellis H. Whitfield, his wife Candise, his daughter Lori A. Hawkins-Durnin, and a brother Byron Miller.

Ronald was a US Navy veteran. He retired from Illinois Bell/Ameritech after 30 years of service. He was an avid outdoorsman, a voracious reader, enjoyed old western movies, and classic country music. He loved spending time with family and friends, spinning stories while appreciating a good cigar.

He is survived by his children, Chari (Michael) Hopper, Mykael Lord, and Angela (Barry) Slifer; two stepchildren, Tony (May) Propst and Tammie McKay; six grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren.

A memorial gathering will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of a memorial service at 11 a.m. Friday, January 30, 2026, at Vancil-Murphy Funeral Home.