Harold Miller

Harold Leon Miller Jr., affectionately known as Hal, began his life journey on June 25, 1977, in Camden, New Jersey. The eldest of four children, he entered the lives of his parents, Loretta Collins and Harold Miller, and was also a blessing to his stepfather, Dwayne Collins Sr., who was instrumental in his upbringing. Hal was a jovial young man whose life tragically and abruptly ended too soon. On June 12, 2025, God allowed him to close his eyes for the final time. His work was done, his purpose on earth fulfilled; it was time for him to rest from his labor.

Hal grew up in East Camden and graduated from the Camden City Public School System before his family relocated to Deptford, New Jersey, where they remain. He accepted Jesus Christ at an early age and was baptized while attending Camden Miracle Center. The fear of the Lord was instilled in Hal, and he never forgot his roots. In his later years, he worshiped at Macedonia Baptist Church, where Bishop Rodney Rowland is the pastor and his parents, Elder Dwayne and Reverend Loretta Collins, serve on the Ministerial Staff.
Hal’s character and personality were larger than life. He was a charismatic individual who drew people to him like a magnet. It didn’t matter what walk of life you were from; there was something about his positive energy that made you gravitate to him. This was also reflective of his passion for helping others. He saw humanity where others only saw despair, and if he could help, he would. This passion opened up occupational opportunities for him with Volunteers of America, where he spearheaded the Outreach Program, going into the communities and walking alongside those who had been forgotten. Hal became a trusted figure within the homeless community. He was empathetic and met people where they were, often listening to their stories, offering advice and encouragement, while handing out blankets and food. He had a soft spot for the community known as "Tent City," and in inclement weather, he would encourage them to seek safety in the shelters. For his dedication and tireless work, he received recognition and awards. As a result, Hal was sought after and offered the position of Program Coordinator for the newly built Joseph House, an overnight shelter for men and women that offered a continuum of services. As Coordinator, Hal helped transform a shelter into a sanctuary. He saw humanity in every person and made sure they saw it in themselves.
Hal was also employed with Circle of Life Funeral Home in Camden, New Jersey. Recently, he and his companion, Destiny, co-founded 3C Connect—Creating, Cultivating Connections, providing personalized non-emergency medical transportation to their clientele in a professional manner.

Hal was an intelligent, cool, fun-loving, and adventurous individual who spared no expense when it came to his family and close friends. He had an unwavering love and bond with them that will extend through eternity. Hal took great pains to show his daughters what a true provider looks like and how they should be loved and cared for. He always knew the right things to say. He was the ultimate father, grandfather, son, brother, companion, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend. The mold was broken and there will never be another like him. We will miss so many things about him: the sound of his laughter, the radiance of his presence, his humor, and his unforgettable smile, a smile that could brighten any cloudy day.

Hal was someone you could always count on. If you needed someone to talk to, he was there, but you had to be prepared for his honest, straightforward advice. Whenever the family was in need, he was there, willing to go the extra mile to make sure you were okay. He loved being surrounded by those he loved; there was always a story to tell and jokes to be had whenever Hal was nearby. If we were lucky, he might even do a little two-step. He always reminded us how important it was to be together, and at the end of every toast, he would always say "F.O.E.—Family Over Everything," and that is how he truly lived his life.
Hal’s legacy of love will linger through cherished memories held in the hearts of his loved ones. He was a loving and devoted father to his children: Taniya Miller Stephens, Terrell Scott, Shani Miller, Harold Miller III (and his wife, Natalya), and Nevaeh Miller. He shared twenty-five and four of his children with his former wife, Tamika Miller. He was a beloved "G Pop" to Amari DiClementi, Airme DiClementi, and Kamari Miller.

He is survived by his parents, Reverend Loretta and Elder Dwayne Collins Sr. and Harold Miller, Sr. (and his wife Leneary); his siblings: Nicole Flowers, Dwayne Collins Jr. (and his wife, Alexandria), DaJuane Collins (and his wife, Marissa), Erica Shambry (and her husband, Roy), and Terri Williams. Hal also shared a life with his loving companion, Destiny C. Wood, whom he affectionately called his "Beyonce." He loved Destiny’s children as his own: Aniya Little, Vincent Wood, Londyon Wood, Brooklyn Wood, and Phoenyx Wood. He also leaves behind a host of Aunts, Uncles, Nieces, Nephews, Cousins, other relatives, and close friends.
Lovingly Submitted, The Family