Reeder Miller

Reeder Coulson Miller, 90, left us quietly and peacefully from his home in Naples, Florida, on Friday, Dec. 15, 2017.

Born on Nov. 12, 1927, son of Claude T. and Juanita (Reeder) Miller, he was raised in Toledo, Ohio, and later Dunkirk, Indiana. He graduated from Indiana University with a degree in accounting and, in 1955, a law degree. In between college and law school, he served honorably in the U.S. Army.

Reeder married Sarah Frances Wolfe, his Dunkirk High School sweetheart, on June 12, 1949. Following law school, they moved to Decatur, Illinois, where he was employed by the A.E. Staley Mfg. Co. for over 30 years, retiring as senior vice president – transportation. Reeder and Frances resided in Decatur for almost 50 years, wintering in Naples, Florida, for the last 20 before moving there permanently in 2004. After retirement, he volunteered with numerous civic organizations, first in Decatur and finally at NCH North Naples Hospital, where he was honored in 2017 for his 26 years of service. Reeder was a long-time member of Central Christian Church in Decatur and First Christian Church in Naples, serving both in various leadership positions.

Following his wife’s passing in 2012, Reeder met Martha Cecere at church, and they enjoyed three joy-filled years together. Martha brought him much laughter, love and happiness.

Counselor, mentor, father and best friend, Reeder was the true patriarch of his family. Our mantra: “What would Reeder do?”

He is survived by his sons, Bruce (loving companion: Julie Brenegan), Curt (wife: Doreen) and Eric (wife: Cindy); granddaughter Vicki (fiancé: Mike); grandson Cole (wife: Robyn, daughter: Jude); brother-in-law Dick Wolfe (wife: Joan); former daughter-in-law Evelyne; companion Martha; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents and grandson Doug.