Arthur James Miller, known to most as "AJ," to his daughters as Dad, and to so many others simply as Grandpa or "Pops," passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026, at Countryside Assisted Living in Harrison, Arkansas, at the remarkable age of 95.

AJ was born on January 10, 1931, in Harrison, Arkansas, to Oran and Kate Ellen (Woods) Miller. He spent his life rooted in the values that defined him: hard work, kindness, love of family, love of country, and an appreciation for life's simple pleasures.

A proud American, AJ honorably served his country and was discharged in 1956. Following his military service, he devoted his life to the work he loved as a contractor, building homes throughout his community and creating things with his hands. Whether he was building a house, repairing something for a friend, or tinkering with one of his many hobbies, he found satisfaction in making things better than he found them.

But more than anything, AJ will be remembered for the way he treated people. He never met a stranger and had a nickname for nearly everyone he knew. He had a way of making people feel important, whether he had known them for years or had just met them. He was quick with a story, generous with his time, and always interested in hearing about someone else's day. He had kind eyes, a strong laugh, the best hugs, and a gentle spirit. He never seemed too busy to stop and visit awhile.

AJ loved the outdoors and was happiest when he was surrounded by the things he loved most—family, friends, and the outdoors. He was always ready to go fishing, sit on the porch in a rocking chair, enjoy a fish fry, or spend the day on Bull Shoals Lake. He loved hunting, tending his garden, feeding the birds, and simply being outside. He found joy in quiet moments and in the company of his dog Maggie.

His greatest joy, however, was his family. He deeply loved his daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and countless friends. He was the proud father of Cathy Raney of Searcy, Arkansas; Terri Elam of Tucker Hollow; and Mary Ellen Anderson of Berryville, Arkansas. Through his marriages to Mary Jo Wagley Miller and later DeeDee Carver, he built a life rich with family, friendship, and love.

A lifelong hobbyist, AJ spent countless hours building model airplanes, collecting trains, reading western novels, and gathering little treasures that he knew would bring a smile to someone else's face. He enjoyed collecting things, but he enjoyed sharing them even more. He found happiness in simple pleasures, appreciated a good conversation, and never hesitated to lend a helping hand.

AJ was preceded in death by his wife, DeeDee Carver Miller; his parents, Oran and Kate Ellen Miller; his brother, Jimmy Miller; and several beloved nieces and nephews.

He is survived by his three daughters; four granddaughters; one grandson; fifteen great-grandchildren; his first cousin, Virginia Walker; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the caregivers and nurses at Countryside Assisted Living in Harrison. "Pops" was deeply loved there and received exceptional care, kindness, and companionship. Thank you for treating him like family and for bringing comfort, laughter, and friendship to his final years.

Graveside memorial service will be held at Maplewood Cemetery, in Harrison, Arkansas, on Friday, June 5, 2026 at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Countryside Assisted Living, 51 Countryside Circle, Harrison, Arkansas 72601.

AJ leaves behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, laughter, and love. He made people smile, made them feel welcome, and reminded them to appreciate the simple things in life. While he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing he lived a long, full, and beautiful life. The stories he told, the hugs he gave, the fish he caught, and the love he shared will live on through the many people fortunate enough to have known him.