Pleas Eugene “Gene” Miller, age 61, of Flora, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

      He was born March 26, 1964, in Statesville, North Carolina, the son of Grady R. and Frances Elaine (Johnson) Miller.  He was united in marriage to Teri Staley on September 1, 2007, and they shared almost 13 years of marriage together before her passing on August 31, 2020.

      Gene worked in law enforcement and as a firefighter while living in North Carolina.  Later while living in Flora, he worked as a first responder at GSI for 20 years.  Gene cherished time spent making memories with his loved ones and friends.  He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals baseball fan and over the years he and Teri especially looked forward to an opportunity to attend a game at the ballpark with Conner.  Gene was a member of Christ’s Church in Flora.     

      He is survived by his children: Amanda Miller (Johnny) of Statesville, North Carolina, and Connor Eugene Miller of Flora; a stepdaughter: Sarah Watson (Aaron) of Red Bud; grandchildren: Raven Miller and Kiera Miller of Statesville, North Carolina; siblings: Roger Miller (Cindy) of Albemarle, North Carolina and Anita Miller (Larry) of Mocksville, North Carolina; and good friends and neighbors.

      He was preceded in passing by his father: Grady Miller; his mother: Elaine Farmer; wife: Teri Staley Miller; a brother: Coby Miller; and his mother-in-law: Marilyn Staley.

      A graveside ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Elmwood Cemetery.  Those attending are asked to arrive directly at the cemetery.  A visitation will be held from 5 until 7 p.m. on Monday evening, May 26, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Memorial donations are suggested either to assist the family with expenses (and will be accepted by the funeral home) or to Clay County Cancer Crusaders.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com