James E. Miller

JAMES EARLE MILLER June 26, 1936—January 22, 2010 Jim Miller was born in Alton, Illinois and raised in St. Louis, Missouri where he studied architecture at Washington University. He gained early notoriety in St. Louis by purchasing salvage rights to blocks of elegant condemned homes and incorporating many of their lovely features into businesses, homes and restaurants that he was commissioned to design. His popular Spot in the Square art and antique gallery was one of the first businesses to open in St. Louis’ historic Gaslight Square. Moving to Chicago in 1967, Jim worked for design luminary, Richard Himmel before opening his own interior design firm in 1973. He continued to develop his talents by incorporating his signature gift for color and an eclectic diverse style of design. Jimmy was called on many times to put his creative stamp on the homes of prominent Chicagoans and many high style restaurants including Arnie’s, Sweetwater, Hamburger Hamlet, Hillary’s, and Barbara Eden’s Huckleberry’s nightclub in Chicago and Paul and Andy Anka’s disco Jubilation in Las Vegas. Jim's work was published extensively in leading interior and architectural design publications, culminating in a 13 page article in Better Homes & Gardens in 1993 featuring his fabulous transformation of a farmhouse in Southern Michigan. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Earle J. Miller and Stattira Brainerd Miller. He is survived by his sister Betty Garvey (Ed), his brother Mike Miller (Becky), 5 nieces: Kathleen McNeil (Joe), Pam and Lizz Garvey, Mary Miller Faulkner (Myles) and Anne Miller, grand-nieces Maggie, Caroline, and Lottie, grand-nephews Jack and Teddy. Jim loved life, his dogs, beautiful objects, gardening, and playing Bridge. His generosity knew no bounds. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. A memorial service in Michigan and burial in Illinois will occur in July. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Jim's name to Hospice At Home, 4025 Health Park Lane, St. Joseph, MI 49085. The family would like to thank Jordan's Nursing Home for the compassionate care they provided Jim. Those wishing to sign the memory book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.