John Miller

John “Foxy” Miller, 86, of Hermitage, passed away peacefully with his loving wife and children at his side on Thursday evening, December 4, 2025, in Clepper Manor Nursing Home, Sharon.

Mr. Miller was born November 6, 1939, in Sharon, a son of the late Henry Clair and Mary Elizabeth (Hurley) Miller. He was a 1957 graduate of Hickory High School in Hermitage and served as Class President. He earned a bachelor’s degree in physical education from Slippery Rock University in 1961, where he was a member and President of the Alpha Chi Rho Fraternity.

For 35 years, Foxy taught physical education at Hickory High School, Hermitage, where he also coached the varsity football and wrestling teams.

In 1965, he married the love of his life, Carole J. Foti, and together they enjoyed 60 beautiful years of marriage.

In 1975, he and his wife designed and built their first home. The construction of this home was his passion - the focal point being the log-burning fireplace in their family room.

A man of many talents and hobbies, Foxy enjoyed spending time outdoors, working in his garden, canning, making brandy, and fishing trips on Lake Erie.

His honeymoon in Bermuda sparked his passion for traveling. He and his wife, Carole, have traveled to 40 countries, most notably his favorites: Australia and Alaska.

Above all else, Foxy was a devoted husband, father, and “Cracker,” which he was lovingly called by his grandchildren. He was an avid Cleveland Browns fan and never hesitated to help a friend or neighbor in need, always putting others’ needs before his own.

In addition to his wife, Carole, he is survived by a daughter, Nicole Wassil, Boston, MA; a son, Henry Miller, Transfer, PA; three grandchildren, Cameron Wassil, Clayton Wassil, and Bryce Miller; a sister-in-law, Linda Murphy (Paul); and several nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, Foxy was preceded in death by five brothers, Claude (Kathlyn), Bob (Jane), Bill (Janie), Jim (Ruth), and George (Betty) Miller; three sisters, Alice Marie Shaffer (Oren), Jean Elkes (Bill), and Mariellen Harp (Ted).

“On Angel’s wings you were taken, but in my heart you’ll stay.”

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be directed to Meals on Wheels, 850 N. Hermitage Rd, Hermitage, PA 16148.

Family and friends will be received from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday (12-9-25) in J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1090 E. State St., Sharon. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.McGonigleFuneralHomeandCrematory.com.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday (12-10-2025), in the funeral home, with Rev. Rick Stauffer, officiating.