Originally from Orchard Park, New York, Raymond Roland Miller “Ray” demonstrated an extraordinary intellect and love of learning from an early age. After attending Calasanctius Preparatory School - where his academic gifts allowed him to skip two grades - he graduated from Orchard Park High School in 1973 at just 16 years old. Ray began his college education at Rosary Hill College (now Daemen University) before transferring to the University at Buffalo, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 1977 at the age of 20.

Ray remained a devoted scholar and lifelong learner. A voracious reader, he especially enjoyed science fiction, fantasy, and horror. He could finish a book in less than a day and often read more than 30 books in a single month. He was equally fascinated by technology and was always an early adopter of the latest gadgets. Ray delighted in learning everything he could about a new device, showing others how it worked, and then generously passing it along for someone else to enjoy.

Generosity was one of Ray’s defining qualities. He found great joy in giving to others, whether treating family and friends to dinner, buying tickets for a day at a theme park, or opening his home to those he loved. When his brother Rob and his family relocated to Florida, Ray warmly welcomed them into his home for several years. 

Ray’s distinguished professional career took him to Dayton, Ohio, where he spent more than 25 years working as a skilled systems analyst for NCR and AT&T contributing to the development of some of the world’s earliest automated teller machines (ATMs). His expertise earned him a top-level security clearance with the U.S. Air Force Logistics Command when he worked at Technology Incorporated in the 1980’s. Over the course of his career, he also worked with cutting-edge plotter technology for CalComp.

While living in Dayton, Ray became actively involved in the local community theater scene, where he formed many lasting friendships. He also continued to nurture his lifelong love of movies. Combining his creativity with his passion for technology, Ray founded a software company called Creative Thaumaturgy, which released the video game Miner 2049er, inspired by the California Gold Rush of 1849.

In 1998, Ray moved to Lakeland, Florida, to be closer to his parents. He completed his professional career there as a computer programmer. Over the years, he lovingly created a home where family members gathered often, shared laughter - a space filled with laughter, warmth, and beautiful memories. Ray was also a devoted member of his faith community. He was active at St. Anthony Catholic Church and in the Knights of Columbus, where he attained the honorable rank of Sir Knight of the Fourth Degree.

Ray passed away on Friday, September 4th, 2026. Ray was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Susan Barbara Miller (née Roesler); his father, Ellsworth Roland Miller Jr.; and his cherished canine companions, E.D. (“Extra Doggie”), Buddy, Tinker Bell, Taffy, Holly, and Dolly.

His memory will be lovingly cherished by his siblings, Barbara Miller, Robert (Yvonne) Miller, and Ronald (Susan) Miller; his nieces and nephews, Sara Umanzor, Ashley Miller, John Miller, Michael Miller, Valentina Miller, and Samantha Miller; and the many relatives and friends whose lives were enriched by his intelligence, generosity, humor, kindness, and boundless generosity.

Funeral services will be held at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Lakeland, FL on September 19th at 1:00 pm.