Curtis L. Miller

Curtis Lee Miller Sr.

February 24, 1977 – November 28, 2024

Curtis Lee Miller Sr. was born on February 24, 1977, in Chicago, Illinois, to Dorlinda Anderson Miller and Curtis McDaniel. He was a beloved father, fiancé, son, brother, nephew, cousin, friend to many, and, most importantly, a child of God.

Curtis was preceded in death by his mother, Dorlinda Miller; his father, Carrey Miller; his biological father, Curtis McDaniel; and his sister, Dorlinda Mae Randall.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his fiancé, Krystal Turner; his children: Curtis Miller Jr., Chiquan Miller, Kendahl Washington-Miller, and Ca’Mere Miller; his siblings: Eunice McCord, Gaylin (Jennifer) McCord, Michael McCord, Karmen Miller, and Sonya (Justin) Oefelein; as well as a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Curtis was the sixth of seven children. In 1987, he was adopted by his loving father, Carrey John Miller, who raised him alongside Curtis’ mother after their marriage in 1980. Affectionately known by his family as “Juby,” a nickname given by his mother, Curtis was also known as “Scruples,” “Scrupes,” or simply “Curt” to others.

Curtis grew up on the Northwest side of Rockford, Illinois, attending Conklin Elementary, Church Elementary School, Kennedy Middle School, West Middle School, Eisenhower Middle School, and Guilford High School. As a teenager, he moved to Columbia, Missouri, to live with his Aunt Eunice and cousins.

Curtis had an adventurous spirit and a larger-than-life personality. As a child, he could often be found climbing trees, building ramps for bike stunts, or pounding out Hip-Hop beats with his fists on his parents’ basement cocktail table. He loved the family dog, Spark, enjoyed playing basketball at Andrews Park, and swam at Levings Lake and Fair Grounds Park Pool. Curtis was the leader and protector of the younger family members, affectionately referred to as the “Pee-Wees,” and he fiercely defended them from any outside threats.

Curtis had a way of making everyone laugh and feel at ease. He formed lifelong bonds with friends in both Rockford and Columbia. Known for his infectious sense of humor, sense of style, and passion for cars, Curtis brought joy to all who knew him.

In 1994, Curtis met Patrice Sago in Rockford, and two years later, they welcomed their son, Curtis Miller Jr. In 1995, Curtis met Ella Proctor in Columbia, Missouri. In 1997, they had a son, Chiquan, with Ella cherishing the heartfelt gratitude Curtis expressed for their child.

In 2005, Curtis met Ashley Washington through mutual friends. Their connection began with laughter and memorable encounters, and in 2007, they welcomed their son, Kendahl. Curtis met Cabreesha Maxwell in 2020 under the guise of car shopping, but his true interest lay in asking her out. In 2021, they had a daughter, Ca’Mere.

Curtis’s relationship with Krystal Turner began in 2013 when they were neighbors in Orton Keyes. Their bond grew into love, and their first date at Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen was the start of a beautiful partnership. Krystal fondly remembers Curtis’s kindness and loving nature.

Curtis will be deeply missed but forever cherished by all who knew him. He had a unique way of bringing joy and laughter to those around him, and his vibrant spirit will live on in the countless memories he created with family and friends. No gathering, holiday celebration, or reunion will ever be quite the same without him. Curtis’s legacy is one of love, resilience, and the deep impact he made on everyone he met.

Rest in peace, Curtis. You will remain in our hearts forever.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.