Gene N. Miller

Gene N. Miller, (73) born February 2, 1951 passed away on December 28, 2024. Son of George and Amelia Miller. Graduated in 1969 from Byron High School and Highland Community College. Gene was a lifelong farmer living with his family on the Centennial farm outside Leaf River. 

Gene met his young Elgin city girl through mutual friends. During their long-distance letter writing friendship he showed Vicki his love of farming, easily having her falling in love with him and the farm. 

In addition to Gene’s passion on the farm, he loved raising Hereford cattle with his kids. He enjoyed being a 4-H leader and an Illinois Junior Hereford advisor with his wife for many years. Our family has made many lifelong friends while traveling through the states showing Hereford cattle as our “family vacation”. 

Gene served on the Byron School Board for many years, and he was so proud to be able to hand each of his children their diploma. Most recently he was a member of the Leaf River Township Board. 

Gene is survived by his wife, Vicki of 45 years. Their children, Matthew (Erica) Miller, Bryan (Katie) Miller, and Amy (John) Kirchner. Beloved grandchildren and Papa to Coehen, Cylee, Caylen, Addy, Kolt, Kya, Lexa, Hayden, Maci, Kane, and Kase. 

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Azura in Beloit and Agrace Hospice for their wonderful care. 

A memorial gathering will be held from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at Farrell Holland Gale Funeral Home in Byron. In lieu of flowers donations may be made the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. 

Michael J. Fox Foundation