With the heaviest of hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Ryken “Doc” Miller, a bright and spirited 9-year-old boy whose love for life was as vast as the open fields he roamed.
A little rough and tough cowboy with a big heart, Doc was a key part of his family, always at the center of their lives, and his absence will be deeply felt every day. Born to Weston and Jinny Miller, Doc was a true farm boy through and through.
From the moment he could walk, he was immersed in farm life, eager to be part of every task, big or small. He had a natural connection with animals and knew more about cows, pigs, and farming than most grown men.
His horse, Jo, was his pride and joy, and he never hesitated to saddle up for an adventure. Whether it was feeding the animals, herding cattle, or checking on newborn calves, Doc embraced it all with boundless enthusiasm.
Doc found immense joy in spending time with his dad, Weston. He cherished the moments they spent together working the land—hauling hay, fixing fences, and tending to the animals.
Every task was an opportunity to learn, and he took great pride in mirroring his father’s every move. His love for the outdoors extended beyond the farm; he was an eager fisherman, a budding hunter, and an adventurer at heart, always looking forward to the next big experience.
His mother, Jinny, was another guiding light in his life. She taught him about the special bond between humans and animals, instilling in him a deep appreciation for the ranch life and the importance of hard work.
She made sure he understood that responsibilities came first, often reminding him that missing his homework meant missing out on the cherished chore time with his dad. Her love and wisdom helped shape him into the compassionate and hardworking boy he was.
Doc adored his family, especially his younger siblings, Dixie and Dex. He was the best big brother, always looking out for them and showing them the ropes of farm life.
Whether playing pretend adventures, catching bugs, or building forts, he embraced his role with a loving and protective nature. He shared an unbreakable bond with his grandparents, who played a significant role in his life.
His fishing trips with Papa Miller were legendary, and just a day before his passing, he proudly out-fished his Papa by catching an impressive 17 fish. Helping Papa Jenkins build his shop was another favorite pastime, as he always wanted to be in the middle of the action.