John Ollis Miller

John Ollis Miller

Marion

John Ollis Miller, 86, of Marion, died Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at St. Luke’s Hospital, Cedar Rapids. He was born January 27, 1939 in Kirksville, Missouri to Louis and Fern Miller. On September 29, 1957 he married Mary Lou Toft.

He was a 1957 graduate of New London High School, served in the U.S. Army, and was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Marion.

John worked as a construction supervisor for NorthWestern Bell, later known as US West. He was a member of NorthWestern Bell Pioneers in which he was active for twenty years; he was a leader for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion during his tenure at US West.

John won many awards in marketing; volunteered through the church and was a church sponsor. He enjoyed his family, his neighbors, genealogy, woodworking and his tool collection. John believed in equality for all.

He is survived by his wife Mary; two sons Bradley (Manny) Miller-Garcia of Davenport and Craig (Barb) Miller of Royalton, Ohio; five grandchildren, Sara Ealey, Seth, Owen, Audrey, and Scott Miller; two great-grandchildren, Lelan and Ridge Ealey; sister Marsha Burns and brother Lou Miller of Waterloo, Illinois. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his son Steven J. Miller; grandson John Miller; and sister Nancy Corey.

The family greeted friends at a luncheon at Elliott Chapel, New London beginning at 11:30 am, Monday, July 14, 2025. Immediately following the luncheon was a 1:00 PM graveside service at Burge Cemetery, New London, with his grandson Seth Miller officiating. Military rites were presented by the Henry County Honor Guard. A memorial has been established and online condolences may be left at www.elliottfuneralchapel.com.