Robert Long Miller

Robert Long Miller

July 16, 1930 – May 13, 2026

Bobby Miller’s life was marked by deep roots, enduring love, and a steadfast dedication to family and community. A proud son of Havana and a descendant of Florida pioneers, he spent nearly all of his 95 years in the town he cherished, leaving only briefly to attend Emory University in Atlanta, where he was a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. It was during that time, on a visit home, that he was set up on a blind date with Florida State University student Jan Stayer—a simple introduction that would shape the rest of his life. Their connection was immediate and lasting, and to be nearer to her, Bobby transferred to Florida State University for his second year. In 1950, they were married, beginning a remarkable 75-year partnership filled with love and devotion, celebrated joyfully in September 2025.

From an early age, Bobby distinguished himself both on and off the field. At Havana High School, he lettered in varsity baseball and basketball and, alongside his younger brother Dan, led the basketball team to back-to-back state championships—an achievement he carried with pride throughout his life. By 1955, Bobby and Jan had completed their family with the arrival of their three children, Andy, Susan, and Bill, who remained at the heart of all he did. Following his marriage, Bobby joined his father at Miller Chevrolet Company, where he worked diligently until he and his brother Billy purchased the business. Together, they carried forward the family legacy for more than three decades, earning the respect of their community through integrity and hard work.

Bobby’s love for Havana was evident in his lifelong service. He served faithfully on the town council for decades, including as its president, he was a Freemason and Shriner in the Morocco Chapter -- always guided by a deep sense of responsibility and care for his community. He was a member of Salem United Methodist Church and coached little league baseball. His leadership left a lasting imprint, most notably through his role in securing funding for a Medical Center and Town Hall, helping to support the needs of a growing town he held so dear. Outside of his civic life, Bobby found great joy in simple pleasures. As a founding member of the Havana Golf and Country Club, he was an enthusiastic golfer. He was also a devoted outdoorsman who found peace in nature, especially at “The River,” a place he loved deeply and where he gathered family and friends, instilling in them a lasting appreciation for its beauty and meaning.

Bobby and Jan shared many adventures together. They were loyal supporters of Florida State University, attending nearly every home football game and traveling for the most memorable matchups, including the National Championship victory in New Orleans. They also cherished their time in Highlands, North Carolina, and embraced opportunities to travel abroad, with favorite destinations including the Cotswolds, the Lake District in England, and the rugged beauty of Scotland. Above all, Bobby will be remembered as a true Southern gentleman—gracious, kind, and guided by an unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on not only in his many accomplishments, but in the lives of those he cherished most and who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

He shared his life with beloved wife, Jan; his children, Andy (Cindy), Susan (Bobby), and Bill; parents Marvin and Thelma, siblings Billy, Dan, Dorothy, and Margaret; and a large and loving extended family grandchildren Ben, Shannon, Katie, Drew, Mathew, Lauren, and Kate, and great-grandchildren Hudson, Ryder, Colson, Avery, Ellasyn, Noah, Hank, and Elizabeth.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at Faith Funeral Home Chapel from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. To honor his life the family asks that you enjoy and respect the beauty of nature and the land we call home.