Jerry Dean Miller, 72, of Muncie, Indiana, went to be with his Heavenly Father on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at IU Health Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis.

Jerry was born in Muncie on September 18, 1953, the fourth child of Junior A. and Pauline E. (Harvey) Miller. He graduated from Muncie Central High School in 1971 and remained a proud Bearcat all his life.

Jerry attended Ball State University and followed his father into a career at Muncie Newspapers before climbing the ranks at AeroForge, now GKN Aerospace, where he retired as Operations Manager in 2020.

Jerry was a member of Riverside United Methodist Church for many years, where he sang baritone in the choir. He also participated in other men’s vocal groups. He was a longtime member of Delaware Lodge, 46 F & AM.

Second to the Lord, Jerry loved his family and worked hard to support them in any way he could. He was a fiercely loving husband, a patient and understanding parent, a doting, adoring “Grampy,” and a generous, loyal friend to all who knew him.

Jerry liked to take action and make things happen. He was a born problem-solver, but mostly enjoyed serving others. Jerry spent countless hours supporting his wife, Barb, in educational projects that benefited students and teachers.

He was also an eager adventurer who enjoyed whisking away his wife and granddaughter on adventures great and small. Together, and with dear friends and family, they traveled cross-country several times and visited over 30 countries. Climbing the steps to the monasteries of Meteora, Greece was one of his favorite experiences.

Carrying on Jerry’s legacy are his wife of 28 years, Barbara Swander Miller; sons Adam Miller, Ted Shideler, and John Shideler; daughter, Sally Shideler; granddaughter Chloe Miller; and his sweet puppy, Eliza. He also leaves behind a sister, Karen Miller, and nephews Mark (Maureen) Delgado and Kris (Natalie) Delgado. Reuniting with Jerry in heaven are his parents, elder brother Sammy Miller, elder sister Nancy (Miller) Delgado, and son Kyle Miller.

Fittingly, the last acts of this benevolent man were to give to others in need as an organ and tissue donor.

The family has held a private celebration of life to honor Jerry’s legacy. Private services will be held at a later date for the interment of Jerry’s ashes at Tomlinson Cemetery.

In place of memorials, the family encourages friends and family to learn about organ and tissue donation.