Joseph Miller

Joseph William Miller, 68, of Swanton, passed away on January 25, 2025 after a courageous battle with dementia. Even as the disease progressed, glimpses of his true self would shine through. Whether a twinkle in his eye when he heard a familiar song, a smile that would appear when a loved one entered the room, or in the laughter at a shared joke – we were graced with moments that were precious reminders of the person he always was and will be cherished by his loved ones.

Joe was born on June 20, 1956 to Francis B. Miller and Norma J. Lavanway in Burlington, Vermont. After high school, Joe enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served as a Fire Protection Specialist. Upon discharge, he attended Johnson State College studying political science and later graduated from Trinity College with a bachelor’s degree in history. In the interim, Joe joined the VT Army National Guard, eventually retiring at the rank of Captain, having served as the commanding officer of several units in Chittenden and Franklin Counties. Joe continued to serve his community as a Correctional Officer at the Northwest State Correctional Facility and subsequently as a Probation and Parole Officer based in St. Albans until his retirement in 2019. 

Joe spent many happy hours in the woods hunting deer and napping outdoors. He was a member of the Missisquoi Valley Sportsman Club and a frequent presence at the counter of Alder Run Gun & Ammo Shop in Franklin, VT prior to its closure. He enjoyed his retirement doting on his “babies” Chuckie and April, his much loved and spoiled feline companions.

Joe was predeceased by his parents as well as his brothers Jaime and Maurice Miller. He is survived by his sister, Noreen Maskell (Edgar) of Tampa, FL; former wife, Patricia Miller of Saint Albans; stepchildren Margareta Quintela (Anthony) of Saint Albans, Mark Francis (Denise) of Milton, and Matthew Francis of Lakeland, FL. He will be missed greatly by his grandchildren and their families; a niece and nephew; as well as very dear friends Bob Bessette and Matt Olmstead, who made his last days brighter. Special thanks too, to Emily Nolan and her family who adopted Joe, caring for him with deep love and respect.

According to Joseph’s wishes, there will be no visitation or services. Burial will be private at the family’s convenience at the Vermont Veteran’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his memory to the Franklin County Animal Rescue, located at 30 Sunset Meadows, St. Albans City, VT, an organization he felt strongly about and supported.