David Steven Miller

August 23, 1949 - October 12, 2012

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Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home

3800 N. Big Spring St

Midland, Texas 79705

Tuesday 10/16, 2:04 am

Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home

3800 N. Big Spring St

Midland, Texas 79705

Monday 10/15, 2:05 am

David Steven Miller of Midland, Texas, died Friday, Oct. 12, at Midland Memorial Hospital after a brief illness. He was born Aug. 23, 1949, in Ardmore, Oklahoma, to Sam Miller, Sr. and Dorothy Kirkpatrick Miller, who preceded him in death.David grew up in Pecos, Texas, and Fort Stockton, Texas. He graduated from Fort Stockton High School in 1967, where he was valedictorian. He earned a B.A. from the University of Texas at Austin and an M.A. from UTPB in Odessa.He enjoyed a career in education that spanned 38 years, having taught in Fort Stockton, Odessa, Pecos, Midland, and in Carmel, California. During that time, he taught every level except second grade.A certified member of MENSA, David truly loved learning as well as teaching. He regularly attended workshops and seminars around the country, which explains why he was certified to teach in nearly every area–math, science, social studies, gifted/talented studies, English, and elementary education, as well as being a reading specialist. Few people were aware that he was also a virtuoso pianist, but everyone who knew him could attest to his razor-sharp wit.On May 20, 2006, in Pacific Grove, California, he married Kathy Favor, whom he first met in 1979 when they taught together at Pecos High School. From that time on, David and Kathy collaborated in almost every aspect of their teaching. When she taught junior English, he taught sophomores, and they worked consistently to make sure their curricula meshed. When they coached students in UIL forensic events, she worked with debate and extemporaneous speaking, and he coached students in poetry and prose interpretation. They also co-directed award-winning one-act plays. Indeed, they were true partners in education. In their spare time, they enjoyed theater, classical music, and traveling.David is survived by his beloved wife Kathy, his brother Sam Miller, Jr. (Pam) of San Angelo, nephews Trey Miller (Amy) of Lubbock and Jim Miller (Trudi) of Pecos, his niece Robin Miller of Midland, and numerous great-nieces and nephews.Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 15, at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home, 3800 N. Big Spring St., Midland, Texas.A service of remembrance will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 16, at St. Lukes Methodist Church, 3011 Kansas St., Midland, Texas, with the Reverend Cody Favor and the Reverend Clark Ford officiating.Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory. Online condolences can be made at www.npwelch.com.,

Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home

3800 N. Big Spring St

Midland, Texas 79705

Map

Tuesday 10/16, 2:04 am

Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home

3800 N. Big Spring St

Midland, Texas 79705

Map

Monday 10/15, 2:05 am

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I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Miller last year. He was my son's pre-algebra teacher at Carmel Middle School. I only met him twice; back to school night and open house. You could tell he really enjoyed teaching. My son thought he was a great teacher. When the school announced that he had passed away, he came home with tears in his eyes. I have to admit, I teared up also. Sending you prayers. So sorry for your loss.

I used to babysit David in Ft. Stockton. I don't know why; he was already quite self-sufficient! We baked cakes together and sometimes cooked dinner. He practiced his French horn and played piano for me. One of the songs that caught his fancy at that time was I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles. He was a sweet, charming, cheerful boy, enthusiastic about everything and charming beyond his years. It was a pleasure to know him.

Kathy, our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family during these difficult days. As our other classmates and friends have shared, David was a friend to all, a great person, and I am sure an even better family man. There are some people that cause you to smile when they are remembered, and David is one of those and will be missed by all.

David Miller was one of my son Jeremy's, favorite teachers when he attended Lee High School. When Jeremy passed away in 2009, Mr. Miller posted one of the sweetest, most thoughtful entries to his obituary page. I will never forget it. I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers for comfort and peace are lifted up for you and your family.

Kathy,Colin and I are very sorry to hear of David's unexpected and tragic passing. David was a talented, dedicated teacher and a strong supporter of the Arts. You were both so kind to our daughter Katy, while she was living in Midland. We are glad we met you both in Midland and will always remember that delicious cake David baked when you invited us over to visit. We send our condolences to you and the family at this sad time. Our thoughts are with you.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

David was an inspiration for my life. What he thought mattered to me in my early years. I will always remember him playing the Pink Panther Theme at the piano while one of the choir members would strut across the front of the room pretending to twirl her tail. Lots of memories. We are poorer for his passing. Richer for having known him. Love and comfort to Kathy and family.

David's personality was always larger than life. I remember playing canasta at his house and I will always remember his smile and his laugh. Our world was a better place for his being a part of it. It was just a privilege knowing him and, though I hadn't seen him in years, I willl miss him! My heartfelt condolences to you, Kathy, and to all your family members.Sincerely,Dianna Irish

Though I hadn't seen David in 40+ years, I always think about the Miller family everytime I drive by on I-10 heading west towards Balmorhea and look over on their home place at their farm. The Millers were great folks and helped make FS the great home town it was for all of us. Condolences to his family.

Kathy, I enjoyed our phone visit this afternoon. Don and I are continuing to pray for you and your extended family. In a few weeks, we will sit down together and share memories of years gone by. Blessings and hugs.

I will always remember the music. When several of us were living in Fort Stockton, after college, we would get together on weekends and party at David's house. He would play the piana and some others would play guitars, but what fun. It will always be in my memory. God Bless.

David was a great boy who became an even greater man. He used his gifts to enrich others. I will cherish my wonderful, laughter-filled memories of him. Kathy, I pray that God gives you peace and comfort.LouAnn

Kathy,I am so sorry to hear of David's death. I knew him in High School and admired him greatly. He was so talented. He played the French horn, as did I, and I had the great privilege of playing with him. Many prayers are going up for you and the rest of the family.Randy Storey and I grew up together, our moms were dear friends. I had the privilege of knowing these two wonderful men. May God Bless you and Keep you under His Wing. Much love. Sally Williams

I was so sorry to hear of David's passing. I haven't seen him for years and years. But I do remember the fun times we had in Fort Stockton. It was nice to read about all of his accomplishments. David will be missed by his students, his family, and his friends.

My condolences to the family. David was a fun guy to know in high school and I'm sure that carried through his life. I'm so glad to learn that he had such a good life. You are in my prayers as David has been.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.