Jay Meredith Miller

Jay Meredith Miller, 80, Kokomo, passed away on Monday, December 15, 2025, in Kokomo, Indiana. He was born August 7, 1945, in Peru, Indiana, the son of the late Meredith & Phyllis (Summers) Miller.

A graduate of Carroll High School in the Class of 1963, Jay went on to attend Ball State University. His lifelong love of learning and curiosity about the world remained a defining part of his character throughout his life.

Jay’s passion for music began early. He first played the cello before discovering the harp during his time at Interlochen Arts Camp in Michigan—a renowned summer program for young artists in music, theater, dance, and visual arts. The harp became a central part of Jay’s life. He shared his talent by performing in his early years in New York City as a soloist and freelance musician at Carnegie Hall, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral and Central Park, as well as in Broadway Musicals, rock groups and for many private engagements.      

Upon returning to his home state of Indiana, he became a member of several community orchestras and played for weddings, funerals and receptions. He was sponsored by the Mississinewa Arts Council where he played for many of the schools in the area, delighting school children with his music and stories of the Harp, as well as encouragement to pursue that which they individually find of interest.

Beyond music, Jay had a deep interest in family genealogy and spent countless hours tracing lineage and preserving family history. He also enjoyed watching the Discovery Channel and exploring new topics—his inquisitive nature led him to continually seek knowledge across a wide range of subjects.

Jay’s life was marked by creativity, curiosity, and a quiet dedication to sharing beauty through music. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.

Jay is lovingly remembered by his siblings: Ann Emery; Rex (Dee) Miller; Maria (Steve) Willey; and Kent (Terri) Miller. He also leaves behind twelve nieces and nephews and many great-nieces and great-nephews who will cherish his memory.

Jay was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law, Jerry Emery.

There will be a celebration of life on Saturday January 10th, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at East Union Christian Church at 1711 E. 296th Street, Atlanta, Indiana (the corner of State Road 31 and 296th Street). Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with cremation.

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