With the heaviest of hearts, we announce the passing of Ryken “Doc” Miller, a bright and spirited 9-year-old boy whose love for life was as vast as the open fields he roamed. Doc, a little rough and tough cowboy with a big heart, was the true definition of a farm boy. His absence has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of his family, friends, and everyone who had the honor of knowing him. His presence was felt deeply every day, and his loss has cast a shadow over the lives of all who loved him.
Born to Weston and Jinny Miller, Doc was raised on a farm where he formed an unbreakable bond with nature, animals, and the land. From the moment he could walk, Doc was eager to take on any task, big or small. His deep connection with the farm life allowed him to embrace every moment, whether he was helping his parents, learning new skills, or exploring the great outdoors. His fascination with animals was evident from a very young age. Doc knew more about cows, pigs, and farm life than most adults, showcasing a maturity and responsibility far beyond his years.
One of Doc’s most cherished companions was his horse, Jo. The bond they shared was inseparable, and Jo was more than just a pet—she was Doc’s partner in every adventure. From feeding the animals, herding cattle, to checking on newborn calves, Doc was always by Jo’s side, leading with enthusiasm and excitement. He found immense joy in the responsibility of taking care of the animals and caring for the farm. His heart was as big as his love for his family, the animals, and the land.
Doc’s father, Weston, had a special connection with him, and the two spent countless hours working together on the farm. Whether hauling hay, fixing fences, or tending to the animals, the moments they shared were treasured. Every task was an opportunity for Doc to learn, and he took immense pride in following in his father’s footsteps. Weston recalls the days when Doc would mirror his every move, eager to help and learn from him. Their time together was filled with love, laughter, and the joy of working side by side.
Beyond his work on the farm, Doc had a passion for the outdoors that extended to fishing and hunting. He was an eager fisherman and was proud of his abilities to catch fish, often beating the odds and out-fishing his loved ones. A true adventurer at heart, Doc was always excited for the next big experience and couldn’t wait to explore new places. He loved the idea of being outdoors, breathing in the fresh air, and connecting with nature.
Jinny, Doc’s mother, played an equally significant role in his life. She was the one who taught him about the special bond between humans and animals, showing him how to care for them and fostering his deep appreciation for the ranch life. Jinny was also the guiding force behind Doc’s discipline and work ethic. She instilled in him the importance of responsibilities, always reminding him that his homework had to be completed before he could join his dad in the chores. This sense of duty and balance became integral to the young boy’s character and made him a compassionate, hardworking individual who took pride in everything he did.
Doc’s love for his family was unmatched, especially when it came to his younger siblings, Dixie and Dex. He embraced his role as the best big brother with pride, always looking out for them and showing them the ropes of farm life. Whether it was guiding them through adventures, playing pretend games, or teaching them how to catch bugs, Doc’s protective nature and loving heart made him an irreplaceable part of his family. He shared a close bond with his grandparents, who were a significant part of his life. His fishing trips with Papa Miller were legendary, and just a day before his passing, Doc proudly out-fished his Papa, catching an impressive 17 fish. His ability to create memories and share experiences with those he loved will forever be etched in the hearts of his family.
In addition to his love for his family, Doc was always eager to help others and get involved. One of his favorite pastimes was helping his Papa Jenkins build his shop, and he was always excited to be in the middle of the action. Doc was the kind of child who found joy in the simplest of tasks and brought an energy and enthusiasm to everything he did. His spirit was infectious, and his ability to make everyone around him feel important and valued was one of the many reasons he was loved by so many.
The tragic loss of Doc has left a profound impact on the entire community. His family is devastated, and the grief is shared by everyone who knew him. The farm, the fields, and the world that Doc loved will never be the same without him. However, his legacy lives on in the countless memories of his joyful spirit, kind heart, and adventurous nature. Doc may have been small in stature, but his impact on those who knew him was immeasurable. His life was filled with love, passion, and a deep sense of belonging, and his memory will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.
As the family mourns the loss of their beloved Doc, they find comfort in the love and support of friends, family, and the community. Doc’s legacy will live on through the stories shared by those who knew him, and his memory will continue to be a source of inspiration. His enthusiasm for life, love for his family, and unwavering spirit will never fade, and those who loved him will carry his memory with them every day. Though Doc is no longer physically with us, his spirit remains in the hearts of all who were touched by his kindness, laughter, and adventurous soul.
In conclusion, the passing of Ryken “Doc” Miller is a devastating loss to his family, friends, and community. His life was a testament to the power of love, kindness, and the joy of embracing every moment. As his family and loved ones grieve, they also celebrate the beautiful life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind. Doc’s memory will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to know him, and his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who carry his love and enthusiasm for life
