Like everyone else in the Cumberland County sports community, I was shocked by the news earlier this week of Ron Miller's death. Although he had suffered heart problems in the past, he seemed healthy and vibrant. I know he was looking forward to coaching the Fayetteville Academy varsity team next season.
My deepest sympathies go out to his family and everyone who loves sports in this area, because in addition to being a Hall of Fame coach, Ron Miller was a genuinely good guy with a deep passion for sports -- especially basketball -- and for helping youngsters improve themselves and giving them opportunities to succeed in life. Just a few days before his death, he was in the stands supporting his local Hope Mills team at a Dixie Youth baseball tournament game.
The last time I saw him, he was coaching a team of ACC senior all-stars in an exhibition game at Terry Sanford High. Even though he didn't have to do much actual coaching, he was relaxed, happy and completely in his element. There was nothing he loved more than talking about his favorite sport. I, for one, will miss hearing him do it.
In the world of competitive athletics, we have a tendency to overuse terms like "greatness" and "legendary," but in this case, both are appropriate. The loss of Ron Miller is a big one for our local sports scene. He was truly larger than life -- and not just because a 15-foot reproduction of his face was once featured on a Robeson Street billboard.
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Well said!!! Although I never saw "COACH" Ron Miller direct a game, he was my friend just the same! I can't believe that anyone who he ever met didn't consider him a friend and an asset to his community, to his profession and to every young person he came in contact with. From "The PressBox" we send our great wishes and deepest sympathies to his family and friends... He will be missed by all sports fans in the Cape Fear and beyond!
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