Richard E. Miller, Age 85
December 23, 1938 – December 19, 2024

Richard (Dick) peacefully passed away after an illness on Thursday, December 19, at his home in South Portland, Maine.  He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.  A proud Marine, dedicated policeman, passionate hobbyist, faithful churchgoer, talented musician, skilled woodworker, and enthusiastic camper, Dick cherished his family above all else.

Richard graduated from South Portland High School in 1957 and soon after enlisted in the Marine Corps, where he served with honor and achieved the rank of corporal.  After his military service, he joined the South Portland Police Department and became the department's first Evidence Technician, a role he embraced with dedication and pride.  Committed to professional growth, Richard furthered his expertise by attending courses at the FBI Academy in Quantico, VA.  In 1984, he retired from the force, leaving behind a distinguished legacy of service and dedication.

Married to Jean in June 1962, Richard and Jean shared a loving and devoted relationship for 62 and a half years.  Together, they raised three daughters, celebrated the joys of five grandchildren, and cherished the arrival of their great-granddaughter.

Richard was a passionate hobbyist with a love for wood crafting, particularly using the scroll saw to create intricate designs, often incorporating clocks into his artwork.

A lifelong music enthusiast, Richard was a member of the Barbershop Chorus, The Downeasters, and his quartet was The Sandpipers.  He also delighted audiences with his keyboard playing and singing, frequently performing at church events.

Camping was a significant part of Richard's life, as he and his family spent many summers creating lasting memories together in the great outdoors.  In addition, Dick enjoyed metal detecting, cheering for the Red Sox and Patriots, and actively participating in his church community.

A longtime resident of Maine, Richard and Jean embraced the best of both worlds by spending 25 winters in Bradenton, Florida, and many in Hiram Maine, where they formed many lasting friendships.

Richard was predeceased by his parents, Edward and Esther Miller, and brother Donald. He is survived by his loving wife, Jean, of South Portland; his daughters, Holly and her husband Gary Clarke of Sarasota, Florida, Lisa and her husband Sean Manning of South Portland, and Tracy and her husband Jim Lacourse of Lake View, New York; his sister, Stephanie Wells.  He was a proud grandfather to Jack Manning of Woburn, Massachusetts, Cameron Lacourse and his wife Karlie of Lackawanna, New York, Alexander Manning and his wife Skyla of Gorham, Jamie Lacourse of Cheektowaga, New York, Wendy Manning of South Portland.  He was also blessed with a great-granddaughter, Olive Manning, the cherished daughter of Alexander and Skyla.

Visiting hours will be from 4 to 7 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 26, at Hobbs Funeral Home, 230 Cottage Rd., South Portland.  Church service will be held on Friday, Dec. 27, at 11:00 a.m., at Peoples United Methodist Church, South Portland.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Richard's name to Peoples United Methodist Church, 310 Broadway, South Portland ME 04106.