Mr. John Calvin Miller, 76, died at his home in Cape Charles Jan. 16, 2021, with his wife, Trixie, and his chemo care cats at his side. He accepted the challenge of living with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer in late March 2017 after three years and 10 months of chemotherapy, he became weary and surrendered. John’s vitality and exuberance extended to all endeavors in his life.
In 2008, he relocated from Rehoboth Beach, Del., to Cape Charles. He became a master naturalist, led kayak tours, and volunteered at the Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge. He eventually obtained employment there.
John worshipped and served at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Cape Charles. While in Rehoboth Beach, he attended All Saints Episcopal Church and sang in the church choir. He was also a member of the camp chorus. He and Trixie co-owned Coastal First Mortgage and owned the Maryland House property. His optimism and enthusiasm brought light and joy to family, many friends, and strangers alike.
John and Trixie loved traveling in Latin America, bird watching, visiting Mayan ruins, and exploring local cultures. Two weeks prior to his cancer diagnosis, they were experiencing the beauty and wonders of Patagonia and the Atacama Desert.
John’s legacy and joy of life will continue to live on with his wife of almost 40 years, Trixie; his daughter, Heather Hutchison, of Boston, Ga.; three granddaughters; two great-granddaughters; his sister, Louise Younghans, of Wilmington, N.C.; and two brothers, Jeff and Doug Miller, all of Wilmington.
Trixie extends a special thank you to all the caring staff at Virginia Oncology Center, especially Dr. Paul Conkling and his team, and the Riverside Home Health Hospice staff for their compassionate care in John’s final days.
A Celebration of Life service will be held when circumstances permit.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a special act of kindness and/or a donation to a cause or charity that you feel characterizes the John you knew.
