David Miller, Sr. Obituary

     David F. Miller, Sr., Washington, NC was called home by the Lord on November 28, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.

     David was born September 2, 1943, in Hagerstown, MD to Hunter Wesley and Martha Jane Neikirk Miller.

     After graduation from Southside High School, Hagerstown, David enlisted in the U.S. Navy.  Most of his naval time was spent in Charleston, SC on board the USS Howard Gilmore.  After 4 ½ years, including a 6 month extension for ‘Nam, David left the Navy for employment with West Virginia Pulp and Paper Co (MeadWestvaco) in Charleston.  He began his 38 year papermill career as a lab technician, eventually coordinating municipal carbon installations around the world.  

     In 1976, he transferred to Westvaco’s Covington, Virginia mill to be closer to his aging parents.  He gave up his traveling job to join the electrical journeyman’s program to have more time with his children. While living in Covington, David met and married the love of his life, Dorian Runyon in 98.

     In 2004, tired of shoveling snow, Dave and Dorian retired to Washington, NC.  Retirement brought more time to devote to hobbies and “projects”.  Whether he was woodworking, laying rock, landscaping, motorcycling, horseback riding or beachcombing, he never met a stranger, making for a rich, full and interesting life.  David distributed hugs with gusto, declaring everyone needs a hug; stranger or friend.

     Dave was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Clayton (Clay) Miller.

     He is survived by his loving wife, Dorothe (Dorian) Runyon Miler, children Fred and Amanda and his “baby girl” Kimberly Jane (Kim) Murphy and husband Dan and grandsons, Graham and Quinn of New Hampshire, two step sons, Dustin and Ty Williamson and 4 step grands.  Also his loving nieces, Amy (Miller) Shrock and Angie Miller of MD.

     A celebration of life will be held Tuesday, December 2, at 11 a.m., Church of the Good Shepherd, 2425 Market Street Ext., Washington with visitation and lunch immediately following the service.  A private interment will be held at a later date at Pamlico Memorial Gardens.

     In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to either of Dave’s favorite charities, Young Life on the Pamlico, PO Box 1682, Washington, NC 27889 or Betsy Bailey Nelson Animal Shelter, US 264 E., Washington, NC 27889.

     Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington is honored to serve the Miller family.