Joseph "Joe" Miller

Joseph E. “Joe” Miller, 65, of Battle Creek, passed away unexpectedly at home on Friday morning, February 27, 2026. He was born in Norfolk, VA on December 20, 1960, the son of Louis L. and Patricia J. (Briggs) Miller.

A Battle Creek resident since 1961, Joe graduated from Lakeview High School with the Class of 1979 and enjoyed his time on the varsity swim team. He was proud to have earned the rank of Life Scout in the Boy Scouts of America, an achievement that reflected his dedication and leadership. He also attended Central Michigan University. Joe successfully completed the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local #445 (IBEW) apprenticeship program, and became a journeyman electrician, working for many electrical contractors. He generously volunteered his electrical skills for many years at the Battle Creek Balloon Festival and the International Festival of Lights, and enjoyed helping make these community events possible.

Joe developed a lifelong love of car racing at just two years old, when his dad first took him to the track. That early spark grew into a deep devotion to the sport and a hobby as an accomplished race car builder, driver and mechanic, respected for his skill and dedication.

Joe had a love of the water that began in childhood, sailing on his parents’ boats on Lake Macatawa and Lake Michigan, and continued into adulthood, where he enjoyed time on the lake aboard his own boat.

A prolific story teller, he will be remembered for his sense of humor and wry wit.

He is survived by his son, Louis E. Miller; daughter, Andrea L. Miller; father, Louis L. Miller; brother, Scott (Linda) Miller; sister, Amy (Tobin) Brevitz; and his grandson, Cameron Miller, all of Battle Creek; a niece, three nephews and a large extended family. He is also survived by his former wife, Beverly Myers, the mother of his children, and her daughter, Amy El Alaoui.

Joe was preceded in death by his mother, Patricia J. Miller; grandparents, Charles and Lilah Briggs, Max Miller, and Ruth Newman; beloved aunt, Judyth Lohse and uncle, Brigadier Gen. Charles F. Briggs, U.S. Army.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be directed to the Humane Society of South Central Michigan. Arrangements by Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care, Battle Creek. Personal messages for the family and favorite memories of Joe may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.