Charles "Chuck" Spires Miller's Obituary
Charles “Chuck” Spires Miller, 85, of Memphis, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on October 29, 2025. Born on December 1, 1939, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Carl and Regina Miller, Chuck lived a life marked by service, devotion, and love.
A proud graduate of St. Edward’s Catholic High School in Lakewood, Ohio (Class of 1958), Chuck joined the Marine Corps Reserve while still a student. His 22-year military career took him around the world—from Parris Island and Memphis to California, Okinawa, and two tours in Vietnam—where he served with distinction as a helicopter mechanic and crew chief.
Rising to the rank of Master Sergeant, Chuck earned numerous awards, including the Air Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Combat Air Crewman Wings, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. His final duty was as Noncommissioned Officer-in-Charge of the Basic Helicopter School at NAS Memphis, where he retired in 1979.
After retiring from active duty, Chuck continued to serve as an aviation instructor at NAS Memphis and later managed the Hoover Service Center until his retirement in 2006.
As honorable as his military and professional careers were, Chuck most cherished being a husband, father, and grandfather. He met the love of his life, Charlotte Cole, while stationed in Memphis, and they shared 57 wonderful years of marriage. Together they raised two daughters, Amy and Gina, who were his greatest joy. Family was the center of his world, and after the birth of his grandson, Chase, he became affectionately known to all as “Pops.” Chuck could build or fix anything and loved learning new skills—earning two associate degrees and even starting a photography business in his spare time.
He cherished travel adventures with Charlotte, trips with family & friends, and time spent with his beloved grandson, Chase, who was the light of his life.
Chuck was preceded in death by his wife, Charlotte Miller; parents, Carl and Regina Miller; and son-in-law, Tommy Deutsch. He is survived by daughters Amy Miller Wade (Jason) and Gina Miller Grace (Wesley); grandson Chase Stewart Chiozza; step-grandson Jacob Wade (Katie); Fitz and Cooper Grace; and in-laws June and Terry Childs, and Vicky and Joe Writesman—along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
Chuck lived a life of purpose, devotion, and quiet strength. He will be remembered for his service to his country, his endless curiosity, and, above all, the love he shared with his family.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to American Cancer Society, Baptist Reynolds Hospice House, or The King’s Daughters and Sons Home.
Funeral Mass for Chuck will be held at 11:00am Friday, November 21, 2025 at Catholic Church on Incarnation in Collierville, Tennessee. Visitation will be held from 10:00am - 11:00am.
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