The Life & Legacy of Elder Art Jerry Miller
Art Jerry Miller, affectionately known to many as Art, Art Jerry, Jerry, Elder Miller, Minister Miller, and Mr. Miller. He was born on July 8, 1943, in Memphis, Tennessee to Woodrow Wilson Miller and Mable Davis Miller.
Art Jerry was a gifted musician, educator, mentor, minister, songwriter, and author.. His life was a testimony of his love for God, music, education, faith, service, and love for others. He wanted everyone to know about the Gospel of Christ. His Musical Journey Art Jerry graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1961, where he discovered his passion for music. The first instrument he mastered was the flute. While playing in the high school band, he continued to develop his musical gifts and later mastered the piano and various other instruments. He earned his undergraduate degree from Mississippi Valley State University in 1965 and his master’s degree from Memphis State University in 1976. In 1966, after receiving his undergraduate degree, Art Jerry began his professional career as a music teacher at B.F. Ford Elementary/ High School in New Albany, MS.. It was there where he met his beloved wife, Mahalia Foote Miller. They were united in marriage on April 22, 1967. Art Jerry went on to have an extraordinary career in music. He founded the jazz band Cantecca, wrote and composed music for various artists, and recorded three albums (one jazz and two gospel albums). His contributions to Memphis music history were significant. Art Jerry Miller was recognized as a Stax Museum artist, and his name is honored on the Historical Wall at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, preserving his legacy as part of the musical history of Memphis. He was a highly respected and successful musician locally and internationally. He was considered by many who knew his work to be one of the best musicians in Memphis. His Walk With Christ Art Jerry Miller grew up in a home that loved God and attended Pentecostal Temple Church Of God In Christ. In 1976, at the age of 33, Art Jerry Miller accepted Jesus Christ and was saved in his home. Shortly thereafter, he received the Holy Ghost, beginning a deeper chapter in his walk with God. His love for Christ and his faith became an essential part of who he was. He began playing music for churches using the musical gifts God had given him to serve the church. In 1978-1985, he became the Minister of Music at Gethsemane Garden COGIC. Throughout the years, he continued to share his gifts with various churches and ministries. His ministry through music extended to worship, encouraging believers, teaching musicians, and witnessing to others. Art Jerry was a bold Christian leader and a soldier for Christ. His faith was evident in the way he lived and served.
Teacher, Mentor, and Author Art Jerry believed in passing his knowledge on to others. As an educator and mentor, he enriched the lives of many students. He published a beginner’s gospel piano book, Power to Play Gospel Music. A Life of Purpose and Legacy He gave his gifts to both ministry and music. He educated people of all ages, mentored aspiring musicians, served churches, and created music. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mahalia Foote Miller; his parents, Reverend Woodrow Wilson Miller and Mable Davis Miller; his siblings, Woodrow Wilson Miller Jr., Cecilia Ann Miller, Bobbie Jean Wynn and Harold Turner Miller. He leaves to cherish his memory; his children, Audjarie Maclin (Mark) and Candice Miller; his grandchildren, Kennedy Maclin, Mark Maclin Jr., and Caydence Miller; his brother, David Carter Miller; and a host of family and friends.
“I’m Free”
Don’t grieve for me for now I’m free, I’m following the path God laid for me I took his hand when I heard him call, I turned my back and left it all I could not stay another day, To laugh, to love, to work or play Tasks left undone must stay that way, I’ve found that peace at the close of day If my parting has left a void, Then fill it with remembered joy A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, Ah yes, these things I too will miss Be not burdened with times of sorrow, I wish for you the sunshine of tomorrow My life’s been full, I’ve savored much, Good friends, good times, my loved one’s touch If my time seemed all too brief, Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief Lift up your heart, rejoice with me, God wanted me now, He set me free.
To Our Father, Grandfather & Brother
You’re a legacy of Grace and Love. A steady rock, a guiding light, a soul so gentle, pure, and bright. You’re the anchor of our family tree, and You led us all with dignity. With open arms, you made this world a better place. A faithful servant true and wise. You saw the world through Heaven’s eyes. You taught us how to stand up tall to trust in God and love through all. Your doors were opened, hearts were stirred by every kind and thoughtful word. Though now you rest in Heaven above, You’re surrounded by the Savior’s love. God’s strength and faithful hand will guide us through this earthly land. You are our Patriarch and friend Your legacy will never end. Deep in our hearts your light will stay, Until we meet again one day. We love you! - Your Family
Order of Service Saturday, September 19, 2026 11:00 A.M.
New Growth In Christ Christian Center 7750 East Shelby Drive • Memphis, Tennessee 38125 Bishop Sidney P. Malone, Pastor
Processional............................................................The Family of Elder Art Jerry Miller Scripture Reading & Prayer.......................................................Minister Steve Townsend Musical Selection................................................New Growth In Christ Christian Center
Expressions
(Respectfully, Three Minutes Please)
Sister Mona Ballard - Christian Vision Center Ministries Pastor William Robinson - Greater Harvest COGIC, Sardis, MS Dr. Granville Scruggs - Fireside Temple COGIC Kennedy Maclin - Family Musical Selection...........................................................Candice Miller & Antonio Smith Resolution..................................................................................Pastor William Robinson Greater Harvest COGIC, Sardis, MS
Acknowledgements.............................................................................Elder Erma Barber New Growth In Christ Christian Center
Eulogy........................................................................................Bishop Sidney P. Malone New Growth In Christ Christian Center
Recessional The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Psalms 23
~Acknowledgements ~
The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude and heartfelt appreciation for every act of kindness shown during this time of bereavement. Your prayers, calls, visits, flowers, cards, words of encouragement, and other expressions of love and support have brought great comfort and strength to our family. May God richly bless each of you for your thoughtfulness, compassion, and continued prayers. ~The Family
~Honorary Pallbearers ~ David Miller Mario Miller
~Active Pallbearers ~ Mark Maclin, Jr. Leondues E. Jack, III Justin Foote Donovan Jones
~Interment ~
Saturday, September 19, 2026 Memorial Park Southwoods 5485 Hacks Cross Road Memphis, Tennessee 38125
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3320 Millbranch Rd. • Memphis, Tennessee 38116 901-452-7331 www.harrisonsfuneralhomeinc.com “There’s No Comparison To HARRISON” HARRISON” ~Since 1923~ Tarik A. Yancy 901.336.9706 www.mysticalprinting.com