Obituary: Jerry Miller

Jerry Miller
February 26, 1944 – January 8, 2025

Jerry Miller, 80, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.
Born on February 26, 1944, in El Centro, California, Jerry spent his childhood in Anaheim, where he developed a love for horses and participated in gymkhana events. He later attended Orange Coast College and went on to have a fulfilling career as an architect, dedicating his creativity to designing award winning structures that were both functional and inspiring.

Jerry had a profound appreciation for art, design, and the ocean. He spent countless joyful days surfing along the California coast and found peace in sailing and connecting with nature. For 30 years, he made Laguna Beach, California, his home, where he established and ran his own architectural and design firm. He also lived in Ojai, California, for a few years before meeting Mariah Shipp. The couple moved to Mariah’s home in Aspen, Colorado, where they spent 12 wonderful years together. Later, they returned to Southern California to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

In the 1980s, Jerry became a dedicated follower of the Transcendental Meditation (TM) movement. He often relied on deep meditation for comfort and clarity, drawing strength and peace throughout his life.
Jerry was married twice and raised two sons, Ry and John Miller, before meeting Mariah, his loving partner of 25 years, with whom he shared the remainder of his life. He is survived by his sister, Helynn; his grandchildren, Teyo and Simon; and three step-grandchildren, Isabella, Paxton, and Wyatt, all of whom he cherished dearly.