Jack G Miller, 89, of Sierra Vista, Arizona, passed away peacefully November 6, 2015 at his home with his wife by his side. Jack was born on June 13, 1926 in Los Angeles. He attended South Pasadena-San Marino High School. In 1944, he enlisted in the Army Air Corps. After his discharge, he attended Pasadena City College and soon transferred to the University of Arizona where he graduated with an MFA in 1953.

Jack called himself a painter, and not an artist. He was a member of the La Habra Art Association in California. He worked in the packaging and material industry where he retired as a plant manager. He met his current wife, Valla, in 1982 and they married in 1985. In 2003, they decided to retire and move from Anaheim, California, to Sierra Vista, which was the only place the two agreed upon. Coming to that part of the country really inspired Jack to start his painting again. He became a member of the Huachuca Art Association. His unique use of color in his paintings really showed his emotional connection to the beauty that surrounded him. It was also evident in his everyday life and in his vast collection of brightly colored shirts and sweaters. He even started using Valla's photographs as inspiration.  The two of them traveled extensively covering all of the 50 states, including Maui last September for their 30th anniversary.

Jack is preceded in death by parents John Garrett Quinn Miller of Muncy, Pennsylvania and mother Susanne Myers of Hawkinsville, Georgia; and by ex-wife Lanelle (Temmie) Halstead. He is survived by his wife Valla (Tobin) Ludwig; children Drew (Wanda) Miller and Cassie (Lee) Thornburg; four grandchildren; three step-children; six step-grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Jack was a kind, gentle man and because of his nature, animals and kids were drawn to him. He showed the playful side of his personality up to the very end. He lived a peaceful life and always sought out the best in others. He will be sincerely missed by all who knew and loved him.

Sierra Vista Herald, November 20, 2015