Thomas Andrew Miller, fondly known as Tom, was born on July 9, 1964, and entered eternal rest on July 26, 2025. His journey through life was characterized by a deep love for family, friends, and his cherished surroundings in Lawrence, Indiana. Tom's death came as a shock to those who knew him, as he was found in his apartment by friends after an apparent heart attack, although the cause is still under investigation.
Tom's early years were filled with creativity and adventure, as he spent time riding bikes and playing "army" with local neighborhood children. He dedicated hours to drawing and creating movies with his brother and friends, demonstrating his remarkable imagination from a young age. Tom graduated from Lawrence Central High School in 1983, where he was an active member of the Drama Club, participating in several productions. He later attended Ivy Tech in Columbus, Indiana, earning an associate degree in Commercial Art in 1986, which further honed his artistic talents.
Though Tom initially ventured into the commercial art field, he soon found he preferred apartment maintenance, cooking, and cleaning services. He earned his HVAC certification in 1996 and received multiple accolades during his tenure with Van Rooy Properties, including "Employee of the Year" and "Technician of the Year." His professional journey also included roles as a cook and kitchen manager at various establishments in Indianapolis, showcasing his versatility and dedication to his work. In his later years, he served in janitorial services for Simon Malls, periodically taking on the role of shift manager.
Tom's love for art transcended mere hobby; his ability to draw and create was evident throughout his life. Known for his elaborate comic-book style works featuring family and friends, he generously shared this gift, creating drawings and paintings for loved ones and occasionally taking on commissions.
Though raised in a Christian family and attending church all his life, Tom experienced what he described as the most significant moment of his life the summer after his high school graduation. While attending a church camp called Indy-Co-So, he encountered Jesus Christ personally and dedicated his life to serving Him. This profound relationship shaped Tom's faith, which remained steadfast throughout his life. He embraced opportunities to discuss the Bible and theology with family and friends and continued attending his family church when possible and listening to his favorite Bible teacher, Chuck Missler.
Tom is survived by his father, Dan (Sherry); his brother, Tim (Andrea); his beloved sons Kyle and Caleb (Contessa); and his cherished grandchildren Nathan, Natasha, and Natalia. He will also be remembered by his nephew, Daniel, and his stepbrothers Tom (Kristi), Brian (Katie), and Chad and their respective children. He was preceded in death by his mother, Janet, in 1986.
In reflecting on Tom's personality, those who knew him often remarked on his friendly and generous nature. He was not one for travel, choosing instead to relish the memories and friendships he built in Indianapolis. His profound appreciation for history and the stories that shaped his family, and friends richly colored his conversations. The holidays, especially Christmas, held a special place in his heart, as he cherished gatherings with loved ones.
Visitation for Tom will be held on August 7, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM at Flanner Buchanan- Oaklawn Memorial Gardens (Conner Suite), 9700 Allisonville Rd., Indianapolis, followed by a funeral service there at 2:30 PM. The gathering of family and friends will be a testament to the impactful life Tom lived, celebrating his extraordinary spirit and the connections that defined him.
To view the service please click HERE
Flanner Buchanan- Oaklawn Memorial Gardens (Conner Suite)
Flanner Buchanan- Oaklawn Memorial Gardens (Conner Suite)
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