Charles Miller, a well-known educator and former state representative from southwest Jefferson County, has passed away at the age of 85.
He served the community in many roles over the years, including as principal at Pleasure Ridge Park High School and as a state representative for District 28 in the Kentucky House from 1998 until 2023.
Miller was admired for his lifelong commitment to helping others, whether in the classroom, on the football field, or in the legislature.
Under Mr. Miller’s leadership, PRP became one of the top schools in Kentucky for sports. He helped build strong teams that worked diligently and achieved remarkable results.
In 1989, the Boys’ Basketball team won the state championship. The Baseball team also had a lot of success, winning state titles three years in a row- in 1994, 1995, and 1996.
These big wins happened because Mr. Miller believed in his students, supported his coaches, and created a strong and positive school spirit.
His hard work made PRP a place where student-athletes could grow and succeed, and his impact is still felt today.
Even after retirement, he remained active, returning during the COVID-19 pandemic to help teach his grandchildren.
Family And Friends Mourn The Loss Of Charles W Miller
Chas Miller remembered that his father wasn’t just a parent —he was a rock, a mentor, and one of his closest friends.
The son shared that the Family was always at the center of Charles’s life, recalling his love for his wife, Carmen.
My Dad, my rock, my mentor, and one of my best friends left this earth today at the age of 85 His death has left a void in my life that’s impossible to fill, but his memory will be a constant source of light and guidance even during this time that I am being tested. God knows how much I miss him already.
Chas Miller
My father was a man of unparalleled integrity. He believed in doing the right thing, even when it was hard or unpopular. His strong moral compass was clear in everything he did, from his career to his relationships with family and friends. He taught me that integrity isn’t just about honesty, it’s about being true to yourself, being a leader, and standing up for what you believe in.
At his core, Dad was a family man. His love for Mom was a beautiful example of partnership and commitment. They had a bond built on respect, understanding, and unwavering support. As a father, he was patient, kind, and always there for me when I needed him. He never missed a ballgame, an event, or a milestone and was always so proud of everything I accomplished in life. He and my Mom taught me the importance of family, and I’ll do my best to parent my two boys as my Dad and Mom raised me.
Beyond his family, Charles Miller dedicated much of his life to Pleasure Ridge Park High School.
PRP was his second home, and he poured his heart into making it a place of excellence and opportunity.
Although he is no longer physically present, his legacy endures through his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Similarly, a student, Norma Joe Van Natta, shared that Mr. Charles Miller served as assistant principal at Doss High School from 1971 to 1977, when she attended the school.
She also offered prayers for his family’s healing during this difficult time.
Local leaders have remembered him as a mentor, a friend, and someone who always tried to bring people together.
His positive spirit, especially his habit of encouraging others to “have a happy day,” left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
Charles Miller’s contributions to education, public service, and the community will be remembered for years to come.