Roy Hanks Miller March 7, 1931 - July 15, 2023

Salem, Utah lost a beloved member of its community, Roy Hanks Miller.  Roy passed away peacefully on July 15, 2023,

Roy was born to parents Erin William Miller and Flora June Hanks Miller in his beloved hometown of Salem, Utah on March 7, 1931. Roy was a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, friend, and a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His journey through life was marked by an unwavering commitment to his faith and a deep-rooted love for his Heavenly Father. Roy’s warm smile, kind heart, and steadfast devotion left an incredible impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Roy was called to serve a mission and before he left, he was drafted into the U.S. Army. The Army decided to allow two men to stay back and serve their missions and Roy was one of them. He served in the Washington, Oregon, and Idaho area. It was here, he met Joe Ann Bowman. She came home from his mission with him, and they were married two weeks later on February 6, 1953 for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple. Roy then went on to serve in the Army for two years during the Korean War, but he was able to stay stateside which was a blessing.

During his post in Fort Hood, Texas, their first child, Vickie was born.

 After his service in the Army, he came back to his history of selling cars at Morris Motors in Provo and Gridley Chevrolet in Spanish Fork. Then came his first son, Rod. He then put his whole life into his RV business, Miller Camper & Trailer Sales which he owned for 55 years. During these wonderful years their second son, Chris, and second daughter, Jennifer, joined the family.

While Roy’s professional accomplishments were admirable, his true joy and fulfillment came from his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Roy loved and adored his four children, 14 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren (with one on the way), and 1 great-great-grandchild, (with one more on the way).  He took immense pride in their accomplishments and joys. His unwavering support, guidance, and love were instrumental in shaping their lives and creating a lasting bond.

Roy and Joe Ann’s marriage spanned 63 years, filled with love, understanding, and shared experiences until her death on May 9, 2011.

Following the passing of his beloved wife, Roy found love and companionship once again when he married Ila Mae Briggs on December 29, 2011. Together, they built a beautiful life for the past 11 years. With this marriage, Roy gained six children, 26 grandchildren and 46 great-grandchildren to bring even more love and joy into Roy’s life. Their union brought together their respective children, creating a bond of love and support that extended beyond blood ties.

One of Roy’s greatest devotions was to the gospel of Jesus Christ. He served in various callings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints including being Bishop of the Salem First Ward; and stake athletic director. Roy’s love of the gospel was reflected in the way he lived his life. He was an example of Christ-like love to all who came in contact with him.

Roy had a zest for life and enjoyed playing a variety of sports including basketball, softball, and of course, golf. He participated in the World Senior Games for 30 years and won several Gold and Silver Medals. He also enjoyed fishing and hunting,

Roy Hanks Miller is survived by his wife, Ila Mae; his children: Vickie Walker, Salem; Rod Miller,  Salem; Chris and (Holly) Miller, Florida; Jennifer and (Mike) Dagley, Heber; and step-children:  Pam and (Steve) Fronk, California; Steve and (Debbie) Rigby, Idaho; Roger and (Sheri) Rigby, Washington; Trish and (Ken) Wolsey, California; Michelle and (Greg) Miner, California; along with their combined posterity. He is preceded in death by his parents, Erin William and Flora June Miller; his wife, Joe Ann Bowman Miller; his three brothers: Merlin, Wayne, and Dean; and his son-in-law, Mark Walker.

Roy Hanks Miller’s legacy will forever remain etched in our hearts. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May his soul rest in eternal peace and may his love for family and the bonds they share continue to inspire us to cherish the relationships that bring us joy and unite us as one.

Funeral service will be Thursday morning, July 20, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the Salem Stake LDS Church, 470 East Salem Canal Road, Salem, Utah 84653.  Prior to the funeral, there will be a visitation at the church, Thursday, July 20, 2023, from 9:15 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.  Interment will be at Salem City Cemetery where Military Honors will be performed.