Joseph D. Miller III Obituary: Mantua NJ Man Dies at 59, Family Remembers His Life

MANTUA, NEW JERSEY — Joseph D. Miller III, a longtime Mantua resident, Navy veteran, husband, father and grandfather, died peacefully on Monday, September 7, 2026, at the age of 59. He was surrounded by family at Cooper Hospital in Camden, New Jersey.

His death has left behind a family and circle of friends who knew him as a devoted husband, caring father and grandfather, a loyal friend and someone who found joy in family, motorcycles, cars, fishing and community service.

Joseph D. Miller III’s Life and Background

Joseph was born on October 4, 1966, to Joseph D. Miller Jr. and Wilma Miller. He graduated from Cardinal Dougherty High School before serving in the United States Navy aboard the USS Kitty Hawk.

Following his military service, Joseph continued his education and earned an associate degree from Gloucester County College.

He built much of his adult life around his family and the people he cared about. He was married to his wife, Karen I. Miller, for 33 years. Their marriage was described in his obituary as a partnership and a lifelong love.

A Devoted Husband, Father and Grandfather

Family was at the center of Joseph’s life.

He is survived by his wife, Karen; their children, Christopher Miller, Jossette Miller and Sean Miller; and his grandson, Milo.

Becoming a grandfather was especially meaningful to Joseph. His family remembered him as a proud Abuelo who cherished his time with Milo.

He is also survived by his siblings Pat Zimmer, Linda McDaniels, Karen DiFalco and Cindy Keenan.

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph D. Miller Jr. and Wilma Miller, as well as siblings Donna Carroll and Debbie Miller and nephews Jeff McDaniels and Dennis McDaniels.

Cars, Motorcycles, Fishing and Community

Outside of his family, Joseph had a wide range of interests.

He enjoyed cars and motorcycles and was known for his changing collection of vehicles over the years. Fishing with his children was another favorite pastime, giving him opportunities to spend time outdoors with those closest to him.

Joseph was also involved with the Boy Scouts of America, where he served as a leader. His involvement reflected his willingness to give time and guidance to younger people.

Professionally, he worked in the parts department at Ace Ford.

He also loved his dogs, Enzo and Pecan, who were an important part of his family life.

Joseph Miller III’s Military Service

Joseph’s years in the United States Navy were an important part of his life story. He served aboard the USS Kitty Hawk before returning to civilian life and continuing his education.

His military service was among the experiences that helped shape the life he later built around his wife, children, extended family and community.

Memorial Service for Joseph D. Miller III

Family and friends will have an opportunity to remember Joseph during a memorial visitation scheduled for Friday, September 11, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Smith Funeral Home, 47 Main Street, Mantua, New Jersey.

A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. at the funeral home.

His final disposition will remain private.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to organizations including the Pride Center of Atlantic City and Don’t Bully Us Rescue. The family is also accepting non-perishable food donations for the Corinthian Cupboard food pantry at the United Methodist Church of Mantua.

Joseph D. Miller III is remembered as a man whose greatest priorities were the people he loved. His life included military service, work, community involvement and many years of memories shared with his wife, children, grandson, relatives and friends.

For those who knew him, his memory will continue through the family and relationships he valued throughout his life.

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Disclaimer

This obituary is based on publicly available funeral-home and memorial information and is intended for general informational and remembrance purposes. Funeral arrangements, memorial information and other details may be updated by the family or funeral home. The family has the sole right to make final decisions concerning obituary information, services and memorial arrangements.