Donald Christian Miller, 86, of Olney, died at 9:20 a.m. Wednesday, October 28, 2015, at his home.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 31 at Thrasher Family Funeral Home in Olney with Pastor John Monroe officiating. Burial will be in Macedonia Cemetery in rural Edwards County. Visitation will be from 9-11 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

Donald was born March 6, 1929, in West Salem, the son of Alvie and Bessie Miller. He attended Shelby Grade School and graduated from West Salem High School in 1947. Donald was drafted into the United States Army during the Korean War and served in the Counter Intelligence Corps from 1951-1954. He married his first spouse, Audrey, in 1955, and she preceded him in death in 1999. Donald married his second spouse, Mary Lou Propes, on December 24, 2001, and she survives.

He worked in the oilfield after returning from his service in the Army. Donald worked for General Electric Telephone Company for more than 30 years until retiring in 1995. He also owned and operated his own sign-painting/-making business for several years.

Donald was a member of Christian Coalition of Richland County and taught Bible studies at the nursing homes in the area. Psalm 91 and 103 were his favorites. He was a member of the Eagles, V.F.W. and American Legion and a longtime member of Olney Christian Outreach Center.

He will be especially remembered for his ability to play the guitar and sing. Donald played in local oprys in the area several nights a week and was very talented. He met Festus of Gunsmoke fame and Little Jimmy Dickens at Grayville in the '80s. He also was an avid gardener and always had a large garden every year. Donald liked to stay educated on current events and politics.

Survivors include his spouse, Mary Lou Propes; three stepsons, Kenneth Lemke, of Ina, Murray (Julie) Propes, of Northbrook, and J.L. Propes, of Evansville, Indiana; one stepgrandson, Josh Lemke, of West Salem, and two stepgreat-grandsons.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Johnny "Dale," and his first spouse, Audrey.

Memorial contributions are welcome at Olney Christian Outreach Center, 3691 N. Van Road, Olney, IL 62450.

The family would like to thank the staff of Hospice of Southeastern Illinois for their help and support.