Phillip James Miller III

Phillip James Miller III, 55, passed away Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, due to a heart attack at his home in Nezperce.

Phillip was born Sept. 1, 1970, in Lewiston, to Jerry Ann Haddon Miller (later Peery) and Phillip James Miller Jr. He attended Highland Elementary School and graduated from Nezperce High School. He spent the rest of his life in the Nezperce area and will be remembered for his vitality, sharp wit, ornery spirit and a profound legacy of hard work.

Phillip took great pride in being a son, brother, husband and father, and he instilled in his children the belief that family always comes first. He also treated many close friends as family, showing his care by opening his home and sharing meals.

Phillip loved the outdoors and was happiest when he could be outside. He enjoyed camping, swimming, hunting and spending time at Crooked River with his family. Above all, he loved farming. Harvest season was his favorite time of year, and he took great pride in the fields he carefully seeded, always paying attention to every detail.

Phillip is survived by his mother, Jerry Peery; his wife, Deanna (Ruckman) Miller; his daughter, Britni Miller; and his son, Darrin Miller. He is also survived by his sisters, Karida Calkins (Branden Calkins), Michelle Leitch (Carey Leitch) and Amanda Arnzen (Phil Arnzen); and his brothers, Lucas Peery and Cain Peery. He is further survived by a great number of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and many loved ones.

He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Ronald Peery; his brother, Isaiah Peery; his father, Phillip Miller Jr.; his stepmother, Minda Miller; and many grandparents, aunts, uncles and loved ones who welcomed him into the afterlife.

A celebration of life will be held in Nezperce. The date and time are to be determined.