Donald James Miller

Donald “Donnie” James Miller, age 67, of Boonville, passed away on Monday, December 2, 2024, at his home. He was born on December 9, 1956, in Boonville, Missouri, the son of Thomas and Mary Ann (Clinkscales) Miller.

Donnie was a proud graduate of Boonville High School, Class of 1975. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Business from Columbia College.  In 1981, he married Carol Backer, and together they had three daughters.

Donnie pursued his lifelong passion for cars, which led him and Carol to own and operate Central Missouri Auto Body for over 33 years. Beyond his work, Donnie enjoyed riding bicycles, indulging in Shakespeare’s Pizza, and cherishing time with his beloved dogs.  He also found immense joy in bringing smiles to his family and friends through his Donald Duck impressions and his talent for being quite the jokester.

Donnie is survived by his daughters, Jessica (Michael) Tierney of Columbia, Shannon (Chris) Feitz of Stuttgart, Germany, and Leslie Elam of Columbia; his grandchildren, Nash and Lainey Tierney, Hailey and Natalie Feitz, and D.J. Elam; former spouse and mother of his children, Carol Miller; his brother-in-law, Mark Starkey of Boonville; his niece, Jenny Keller; his lifelong friend, Tim Smith; many other cherished friends and family members; and his beloved dogs.  

Donnie was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Garth Miller, and his sister Ann Starkey.

Friends will be received from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday, December 13, 2024, at Howard Funeral Home with a memorial service at 12:00 noon. Inurnment will follow the service at SS. Peter & Paul Cemetery.  Lunch will be provided at SS. Peter and Paul Church following the ceremony.

Throughout his life, Donnie often expressed his wish to do more for his grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations toward the existing college funds to be split amongst his five grandchildren. Donations can be made to Carol Miller, the owner of these accounts. Donations can be sent to 4409 Celebrant Ct. Columbia, MO 65202.

Alternatively, donations can be made in memory of Donnie to Alcoholics Anonymous Santa Fe Trail Group of Boonville or The Central Missouri Humane Society.

Arrangements are under the direction of Howard Funeral Home, 1397 Ashley Rd., Boonville, Mo 65233 (660) 882-3381. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.howardfh.com.
 

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