Isaiah 58 Ministries recently said goodbye to a beloved friend and longtime supporter, Howard Miller. For nearly two decades, Howard was a faithful presence in our community at Isaiah 58 Ministries. He first connected with us as a member of Tyler Place Presbyterian Church, serving on our Board of Directors as the church representative. From the beginning he was committed to advocating for our work with quiet dedication.
After Tyler Place closed, Howard and his wife Penny became devoted members of Compton Heights Christian Church. Howard continued to serve on the board of Isaiah 58 Ministries as a community representative, and still sought to serve in whatever capacity he could.
During the pandemic, Howard and Penny made a point to walk down to the ministry at least once a week-checking in on us, asking about the work and the people, and asking how they could help. Their visits were never flashy, but always genuine as they often grabbed a loaf or two of left-over bread, determined not to let it go to waste.
Every fall, like clockwork, they would also bring us items for our Holiday Store – free calendars and greeting cards from the many charities they supported, cheerful decorations and little household treasures and small gifts that brought joy to our guests.
Howard and Penny also loved to travel, having visited every continent except Antarctica. Along the way, they picked up souvenirs, sometimes bringing back a little something to share—like the elephant keychain from India and a small pewter castle from Edinburgh, Scotland, souvenirs that Howard gifted me-a symbol of his thoughtfulness and care.
Howard didn’t seek the spotlight, but his steady support and compassionate spirit made a lasting impact. He will be deeply missed by his friends and neighbors, and by all of us who were lucky enought o share part of his journey.
May we honor Howard by living a little more simply, giving a little more generously, and seeking joy in the everyday. Godspeed, Howard.