My Genealogy Hound

J. R. Miller, a prosperous farmer and well known resident of the Fourth District, was born July 28, 1853, in the house where he now resides. His parents were John and Mary E. (Bradford) Miller. The father was born in Haywood County, in 1827, the mother in same county, in 1831. They were wedded in 1847, and soon afterward moved to Hardeman County. They had four sons and four daughters, five of whom are living. Both parents were consistent members of the Methodist Church. The father was a stanch Democrat. His chief occupation was farming, which he carried on to a great extent. For twelve years he was interested in merchandising. In all financial matters he was one of the most successful and shrewd men in the county. He was prosperous in all his undertakings. He met a sad and distressing death in 1879; while coming out of a house in Centreville he was shot and instantly killed by an unknown party. The cause of the deed remains enshrouded in mystery. The mother died in 1886. Our subject, owing to delicate health, received but a meager education. When quite a young man he began his career as an independent farmer. In 1877 he married Miss Rebecca Franklin, who was born August 3, 1856, in Hardeman County. She is a sincere member of the Methodist Church, and the mother of two children: Robert P. and John F. Mr. Miller is a conservative in politics, but takes no active part and seldom votes. For three years he has been constable, but does not aspire to offices of public trust He has always been an enterprising and fortunate agriculturist, owning over 500 acres of land in the best portion of the county. He is deeply interested in the raising of fast, blooded horses. He has Clipper, Tom, Hal, and Highland breeds.