David Miller

David Miller, 83, of New Haven, CT peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home Sunday afternoon, June 7, 2026 at the West Haven VA Medical Center. He took his first breath in New Haven on May 21, 1943 born to the late David Miller and Vera (Johnson-Miller) Perry. He was the beloved husband of Gloria (Hazard-Staton) Miller. Though short in stature, David carried a heart larger than life. At age 22 on August 15, 1967 David was inducted into the United States Army. He honorably served until August 14, 1973. During his service. he distinguished himself as an expert marksman and received several commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Metal, Vietnam Campaign Metal and the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm.

A proud graduate of James Hillhouse High School, he discovered his love for music as a child, choosing the saxophone, especially the baritone, as his lifelong instrument. In the 1960s, he performed with the Hank Bolden Quintet and was a member of the New Haven Federation of Musicians. He played with several R&B groups, including The Mixed Nuts, The Good Guys The Bad Guys Plus a Lady, and later with the Magnetos. He and his wife cherished their cruises along the Connecticut River, where he played his saxophone with joy and ease. David also shared his musical gift at his church, Agape` Christian Center, under the leadership of Bishop Mattie Atkinson Darden and later Apostle Willa Darden Moody. He served his congregation as Trustee.

Throughout his working years, David held various positions that reflected his strong work ethic. He served as an orderly at Yale New Haven Hospital, crafted pool tables, laid flooring, and worked many years with Clark Material Systems, Butler Papers, and Georgia Pacific, where he received numerous certificates of acknowledgment. After retirement, David embraced the quiet joys of home. He was a true homebody who found peace tending to his yard, detailing his vehicles and delighted in watching sports.

David was predeceased by his parents, David and Vera, his stepfather Kealip Perry, Jr., his elder brother Henry Miller and his stepdaughter, Sheila Staton Harris. He leaves to celebrate his homegoing, devoted wife Gloria, his daughter Damonda (Miller) Long (Michael), his grandchildren Taqueda Long Smith (Kevin) Napoleon Cummings, Jr., Davonna Cummings and Greyshon Cummings, and six great-grandchildren.

He is further remembered by his stepdaughters, Deana Staton Mallory, Donna Staton and Tasha Staton, goddaughter, Rhonda Robinson, nineteen step-grandchildren, eleven step-great-grandchildren, and his mother-in-law Mother Mary Atkinson Joyner. David is also survived by his former wife, Mary McElveen Hooks, step-sister Elizabeth (Judy) Perry Harrington, Brother-in-law Richard A. Joyner, and six nephews. He was predeceased by his two nieces, Kathy and Diana Miller, and his step-brothers, Grady Perry, Albert H. Curtis and brother-in-law Malcolm E. Joyner. David had a wide and loving family network, with deep blood connections and countless people who cherished him. His presence, humor, music, and gentle spirit will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.