- Date Of Birth: May 25, 1929
- Date Of Death: April 21, 2019
- State: Michigan
Billy L. Miller, Trenton resident since 1954, passed away on Easter Sunday, April 21, 2019 at the age of 89. He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Jean Miller. He is survived by four children, Melissa Surmacz, Brenda Chabot, William (Colleen) Miller, and Thad Miller as well as 9 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Billy was born in Findlay, Ohio on May 25, 1929. He graduated from Findlay High School in 1947, Bowling Green State University with a degree in 1954 and graduate degree in 1957. He interrupted his undergraduate days to serve his country as a US Army Ranger. He started a career in the Trenton Public Schools in 1954 that spanned 40 years as he worked as a teacher, counselor and coach at Trenton High School, assistant principal and principal at Slocum Truax, and principal at Monguagon. His zest for educating and his caring nature helped countless students through the years. Swimming was always dear to his heart. From a YMCA state champion youth, to BGSU diver winning all meets as a senior, to a 10 year coaching career at THS earning the Michigan High School swim coach of the year during his final season, to many years of officiating, he poured his heart and soul into his craft. During his tenure as swim coach at THS he coached 10 different All-Americans, had a running undefeated streak of 27 dual meets at the time of departure to administration, started the Trenton Junior High swim program, the Trenton Girls Swim program and the Trenton Swim Club, built a skeleton Class B program into a Class A state powerhouse finishing 4th and 3rd in his final two years, sent many swimmers to college with one swimming in the Olympic Trials, and coached a Junior National Champion AAU relay team consisting of all Trenton swimmers. He was called upon to officiate league and state meets along with an Olympic Trial. Billy has received numerous awards including induction into the Trenton Sports Hall of Fame, BGSU Silver Letter Award and BGSU Accomplished Swimming Alumnus Award. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion, and was a long time active member of the Varsity BG Club and Falcon Club. He contributed to his community and alma mater through service on many different committees. However, nothing was as cherished as the time he spent with his family and friends. He spent many years enjoying retirement at his cottage with his wife Jean. Many days with children and grandchildren were spent over his lifetime at Gem Beach in Catawba Ohio. He equally loved following his children and grandchildren in their activities and athletics. All that recall Billy, will remember him as a humble, selfless individual with a charming personality, endless positivity, and a wonderful ability to bring a smile to the face of all of those who were fortunate enough to cross paths with him.
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