Howard Lee Miller, age 58, of Lewis County, passed away on February 21, 2026.

Born on June 22, 1967, in Columbia, Tennessee, Howard was the son of the late Donald Lee Miller and Cynthia Miller Kilpatrick, who survives.

Howard was truly the life of the party. A naturally sociable person, he never met a stranger and had a gift for making others feel welcome. While residing at Maplewood Health Care Center, the staff and residents often said that Howard could brighten any room simply by walking into it. So beloved was he that he proudly wore a custom-made badge that read, “Maplewood Health Care Center Official Ambassador” — a title that fit him perfectly.

His mother fondly remembered his mischievous spirit. Howard delighted in sneaking up behind her just to give her a playful scare, followed by his unmistakable grin and laughter. That playful heart stayed with him throughout his life.

Howard had a deep love for animals. As a child, he once found a struggling puppy near a creek and begged his mother to let him keep it. With tender care, they nursed the puppy by feeding it with a dropper, and the dog grew to become Howard’s constant companion and best friend. Many in the community shared stories of driving past the cemetery and seeing Howard lying across his brother’s grave, with his faithful dog stretched out across his back — a quiet image of loyalty, love, and remembrance that few will ever forget.

He was a 1984 graduate of Lewis County High School and had a lifelong love for music. He especially enjoyed listening to KISS and Fleetwood Mac, often singing along and sharing his enthusiasm with those around him.

Above all, Howard was known for his kind and gentle heart. He had a way of making people feel seen, valued, and included. His presence brought warmth, laughter, and light to many lives.

He is survived by his loving mother, Cynthia Miller Kilpatrick (Tom); his sister, Teresa (Richard Hinson) Calvert; his nieces, Tonya (David) Lindley and Nicole (Robert) Posey; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom will cherish his memory.

Visitation with the family will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at McDonald Funeral Home in Hohenwald. Funeral services will immediately follow, beginning at 2:00 PM with Bill McDonald officiating. Burial will be at 3:00 PM at Salem Cemetery, Hohenwald, TN.