Thomas Miller

Thomas E. Miller, 83, of Fostoria and formerly of Carey, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025.
Tom was born April 15, 1942, in Carey, to the late Joseph and Marjorie (Donelson) Miller. He was a 1960 graduate of Carey High School and proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, a service that shaped his strong sense of pride, loyalty and independence.
Tom was first married to Betty McElveen, and together they built a family with their three sons, Tony, Kevin and Danny Miller. In 2005, Tom married Becky Yerkes, and through their marriage he welcomed Amy, Katie and Casey into his family.
As he returned from the Marine Corps, Tom worked at the family business, Donelson Packing Company, before beginning a 30-year career at Autolite, where he retired in 1996. He was a member of Our Lady of Consolation Parish and was active in several organizations including Eagles Aerie #2198, VFW Post #3759 and American Legion Post #344, all of Carey, as well as Amvets Post #69 and Local #533 of Fostoria.
Tom found joy in life’s simple pleasures – time spent on the golf course, swapping stories at the local club and effortlessly connecting with friends, both old and new. An avid golfer, he proudly celebrated the rare accomplishment of two witnessed holes-in-one – one in South Carolina and another at Lakeland Golf Course in Fostoria. A devoted sports fan, Tom faithfully cheered for the Ohio State Buckeyes, the University of Cincinnati Bearcats and the Cincinnati Bengals. He especially loved gathering around with friends and family to indulge in story telling, laughter and good conversation. With his quick wit and easygoing nature, Tom had a natural gift for making people laugh, leaving everyone he met with a smile and a lasting memory. True to his independent spirit, Tom often said there was the right way, the wrong way, and the “Tom Miller way.”
Tom is survived by his son, Tony Miller; his granddaughter, Melody Miller; his brother, Jon Miller; his step-children; eight grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and his favorite little Yorkie, Gotti – all of whom brought him great pride and joy.
He was preceded in death by his sons, Kevin and Danny Miller; his brother, Rick Miller; and his parents.
A time to gather and celebrate Tom’s life will be held Tuesday, Jan. 6, from 4 p.m. until the time of his celebration of life service at 6 p.m. at Stombaugh-Batton & Snyder Funeral Home, Carey. The Rev. Tom Merrill, OFM, Conv., will officiate. Military honors will be rendered by the United States Marine Corps. Inurnment will be held privately at Fountain Cemetery, Fostoria, at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Tom’s name to the Carey High School Athletic Boosters or to Our Lady of Consolation School.
Online condolences and fond memories may be shared with Tom’s family by visiting www.stombaughbatton.com.