Dale Melton Miller, Jr.

Dale Melton Miller, Jr., age 38, of Spruce Pine, NC, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 24, 2021 at his residence.

Dale was born on October 25, 1982 in Orange County, NC. He was raised in a group home in Black Mountain and was adopted by two wonderful and loving people who he referred to as his mother and father, Barbara and Sam Miller.

Dale was a good ole country boy who loved being outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping. Dale could light up a room with his smile and personality. He was loved by his many friends and family and he was also a great cook. He earned an Associate Degree in the Culinary Arts from Johnson and Wales University in Charleston, SC.  His family and friends loved his famous chicken wings.

Dale was a brave and courageous man and he proudly served his country in the United States Navy. While serving in the Navy, he was a mass communications specialist and was deployed to Afghanistan. He was awarded the Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy “E” Ribbon, Navy Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Navy Rifle Marksmanship Medal, and Navy Pistol Marksmanship Ribbon.

Those left behind to cherish his memory in addition to his adopted parents, are his children, Dominik Grizzard, Abrielle and Samantha Grizzard-Miller, all of Pensacola, FL, and David Michael Miller of Hendersonville, NC; a brother Chris Miller (Kristy) of Reidsville, NC; and best friend, Rick Matayabas (Dale) of Black Mountain.

Anyone who would like to honor Dale’s memory should send a memorial contribution to: The Wounded Warrior Project P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Penland Family Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the Miller family with arrangements.

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