James Kenna Miller, Jr. known to many as Jim K. to his students as JKM, and to his grandkids as Bop passed away peacefully at his residence surrounded by his family on November 7, 2026, at the age of 84. He was born on October 29, 1942, in Waynesboro, Virginia.
Jim K devoted his life to education and to his students, their families, and the communities he served. He worked in the Kentucky school system for 31 years in teaching and administration, and in the Clarksville, Tennessee school system for 11 years. Education remained one of the defining callings of his life. He earned a master’s degree in mathematics through a National Science Foundation Grant to the University of South Carolina. His dedication to learning never stopped; he returned to school for certification as an assistant principal, then again for principal certification, and in his early 40s once more for a superintendent certification.
Outside the classroom and office, Jim K had a deep love for sports, especially soccer. He coached the High School Boys Soccer team in Caldwell County for five years; where he was able to coach his two sons, Rhett and Reese. In 1994 JKM became the first Girls Soccer Coach and coached his daughter Kenna in her senior season. His enjoyment of school soccer and football games made him a connoisseur of the items in every concession stand. In his younger years he played football and was a football coach at Louisa High School and Berea Independent Schools.
His faith was central to his life. He was a believer in Christ and loved serving in his church. He took special joy in delivering children’s sermons at Ogden Memorial United Methodist Church, and he was a founding member and treasurer of Trinity Global Methodist Church. His spirit of service extended into many parts of community life. He was honored as a Kentucky Colonel and a Kentucky Admiral, served as treasurer of the Soccer Association for more than 30 years, and also served as treasurer of the Kentucky Retired Teachers Association in Princeton. He loved apple computers, fishing, Roy Orbison, classical music, playing bridge, and family surrounding him.
To those who knew him best, Jim K was easygoing yet direct, understanding, and deeply selfless. Of all that he accomplished, he was proudest of his family. He treasured that his children were believers in Christ, that they grew into strong and faithful people, and that they loved one another. He saw his greatest legacy in them and took great pride in the lives they built.
Jim K is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Lynette Turner Miller; his sons, Rhett Lyndell Miller (Jennifer) of Princeton, Reese Albert Miller (Noel) of White House TN; and his daughter, Kenna Desha Hudgins (Drew) of Cadiz. He also leaves behind a loving and cherished family of grandchildren: Candius Jones, Delores Jones, Shalmka Jones, Aubree Marshall (Logan), Kylee Becher (Mason), Baylee Miller, Grayden Miller, Keegan Miller, Bennett Hudgins, Declan Miller, and Jonah Hudgins. His legacy continues in his great-grandchildren as well; Karter Porter, Ava Jones, Derez Bumphus, Weston Searcy, Maddux Marshall, and Ace Becher. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Ann Robinson; his niece, Gina Robinson; and his nephew, Jimmy Robinson (Debbie). He will be remembered with deep love by all who shared in his life, his faith, his work, and his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents Myra Speaks and James Kenna Miller Sr.; and his brother-in-law, Gene Robinson.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Trinity Global Methodist Church, 235 Northfield Dr., Princeton, KY 42445. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Trinity Global Methodist Church ~ Building Fund.
James Kenna Miller, Jr. leaves behind a life marked by faith, service, education, and devotion to family. His influence lives on in the many students he guided, the churches and organizations he served, and the family he loved so dearly.
Goodman Funeral Home is honored to serve the Miller family.
