Kent Samuel Miller

Kent Samuel Miller, age 89, died Monday, August 14, 2017 in Tallahassee, his home for the last 61 years. Born in Fremont, NC, he graduated from the College of William & Mary in 1949. Kent received his Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Texas in 1955 and a Masters of Public Health from Harvard University in 1961. He came to Tallahassee to start the first mental health clinic in the area under the auspices of the Leon County Public Health Dept., which later became the Apalachee Center. Kent joined the faculty of FSU in 1963 as the Director of the Community Mental Health Program in the Institute for Social Research, with joint appointments in Sociology and Psychology. He authored numerous books and academic papers until he retired as a Professor Emeritus in 1990. He demonstrated his concern for his community as a lifelong advocate for social justice. He served on the state board of the ACLU, chaired the Tallahassee Coalition Against the Death Penalty, and was President of the Florida Psychological Association. Kent was a founding member of the committee that established Tallahassee’s first integrated preschool located at First Presbyterian Church, where he also served as an elder. He was a gentleman and a scholar. He was generous to all with his time and support, and epitomized the injunction from Micah 6:8 to do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with your God. He was much beloved by his wife, children, extended family and his many friends, all of whom he cherished. Kent is predeceased by his parents Robert and Lily Miller, and his brothers William Miller and Robert Miller. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Betty Davis Miller, his three daughters; Ann Miller Riccardi (Greg), Jill Miller Theg (Steve), Casey Miller Hovick (Ted), eight grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Services will be held Saturday, Aug.19, 2017 at First Presbyterian Church at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Big Bend Habitat for Humanity, or First Presbyterian Preschool or the Florida ACLU. Scotti Thompson is assisting the Miller family with their arrangements. (www.bevisfh.com 850-385-2193)

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Kent Samuel Miller

November 19, 1927 - August 14, 2017