Jeffery Allan “Jeff” Miller of Burlington, Vt., was a man surrounded with stories and mystery. He passed away on September 1, 2026, at the University of Vermont Medical Center after battling a long illness. Despite his health challenges, he accepted his days with a positive spirit and gracious heart.
Just when you thought you knew him, he would spin a story that opened a new world of possibilities. He was a man of many skills and talents: architect, brownie baker, open mic host, music producer, soundman, coach, builder, athlete and friend.
He was an accomplished skater both on ice and roller. He was a national competitor and national-rated judge in roller skating. His friendships spanned across skaters, coaches, judges and rink owners.
A historical architect, he built and renovated many houses, restaurants and commercial properties in Vermont, Massachusetts and beyond. His famous salad bar boat at the Windjammer in South Burlington, Vt., was the stuff of legend.
He started the Burlington Coffeehouse along with Rachel Bissex, where they created a welcoming atmosphere for everyone, from local musicians getting their first taste of performing to seasoned international performers. There, he channeled his coaching skills, supporting up-and-coming singer-songwriters along their journey.
Anyone who knew him knew he liked to tell endless stories of his younger days growing up near Buffalo, N.Y.; his days in the Air Force, living near Provincetown, Mass.; and playing in bands, seeing concerts and volunteering at Club Passim.
There seemed to be a kind of “six degrees of separation” mystique about Jeff — anytime you mentioned someone, he would usually find a connection with them. He also seemed to have been at the center of a multitude of cultural touchstone moments, like Woodstock and Newport when Dylan first went electric.
Long story short, Jeff was a kind and generous soul, and we all miss his larger-than-life presence. He touched countless lives with his generosity, wisdom and encouragement.
There will be a celebration of life on Saturday, November 7, 2026, 6:30 p.m., at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Burlington, Vt.