F ormer Unites States Marine and Fire Chief Julian Samuel “Sam” Miller, age 74, passed away Friday, March 6.

Miller served in the United States Marine Corps for 20 years, from 1971 until his retirement in 1991. Following his military service, joined the City of Manchester Fire Department, where he served from November 1991 until December 2010, 19 of those years as Chief.

According to his obituary shared by Central Funeral Home, Miller was born Oct. 7, 1951 to the late Julian and Olivene Dixon Miller in York County, South Carolina. Sam was a long time member of Hillsboro Methodist Church as well as marrying his bride of 46 years, Judy Brown Miller, inside the church. He dedicated his life to service—both to his country and to his community.

Beyond his professional life, Mr. Miller was deeply involved in his community and was a member of the Hillsboro Masonic Lodge. He had a passion for restoring clocks and furniture, a craft he is said to have approached with patience, skill, and curiosity. He loved not only bringing these treasured pieces back to life, but also researching and learning the unique history behind each item he restored.

Visitation with the family will be held Saturday, March 14, from 5-9 p.m. Funeral service will be held Sunday, March 15 at 2 p.m. at Central Funeral Home with Rev. John Weaver officiating. Burial will follow in Hillsboro Methodist Cemetery.