Hunting Pouch by Joe Mills

 

Photography by Jan Riser.

Charles David Miller

 

AUGUST 30, 1940 – NOVEMBER 19, 2024

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Charles David Miller, who passed away at the age of 84 on November 19, 2024. A proud son of the mountains of Western North Carolina, Charles lived a life filled with deep connections to his family, his community, and the natural world he cherished.

Charles was born at his family home on Belleview Road in Waynesville on August 30th, during the flood of 1940. His parents were Floyd Lowell Miller and Zelma Ferguson Miller. He was especially fond of his sister Anna Jo Donaldson, who was like a mother to him. 

A lifelong student of history, Charles took great pride in his family’s legacy, being the 7th generation of his lineage to live in Haywood County. His love for genealogy fueled his research into his roots, and he was often seen poring over records to uncover more about his ancestors. 

He was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting - especially for bear and turkey - and spent countless hours exploring the rugged terrain of the Appalachian Mountains and the Blue Ridge Parkway. His passion for the outdoors extended beyond the hunt, as he was a dedicated advocate for preserving the Waynesville watershed, ensuring future generations could enjoy the land as he did.

He was an active member of the Sons of the American Revolution, honoring his forefathers’ contributions to the founding of the United States. He spent countless hours researching the Rutherford Trace and ensuring that the historical markers were restored. 

He was a member of the Contemporary Longrifle Association, a group that shared his interest in historical firearms and preservation. He enjoyed shooting matches and even made long rifles. 

Charles was a meticulous craftsman. He made knives, tinder boxes, turkey calls, jewelry, copper miniatures and replicas of historical items. He could make anything he wanted to.

He was one of the first employees hired at Little Champion. He helped set up the operation. For over 40 years, he worked tirelessly at the mill and made countless friends.

Charles was a wonderful storyteller.

He was known for his quiet strength, his generosity, and his unwavering dedication to his family and his community. 

Charles is survived by his wife, Barbara Cutshaw Miller. They would have been married sixty years on November 21st. 

He is also survived by his daughters Charlene Bright (JD) and Michele Burris (Dale), grandchildren Ashley Cobb (Yuriy) and Hayden Burris and great-grandchildren Elijah (father Travis), Silas, Coleman, and Katerina, and his special doggie, Lucky. He is also survived by many wonderful friends and you know who you are. 

Charles David Miller’s legacy will continue to live on in the mountains he loved, the community he served, and the family he so deeply cherished.

Photo and copy from here.

Knife and Sheath by Tim Ridge

 

Photography by Jan Riser.

Charlie Miller

 Eternal rest grant unto Charlie, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Haversack by Jeff Bottiger

Photography by Jan Riser.

Ax by Jim Parker

 

Photography by Jan Riser.

2025 Alabama Kentucky Rifle Show

 

Folding Pocket Knife by Jack DuPrey

Photography by Jan Riser.

David Wright at The Booth Museum

 

I've had quite a few folks ask about information about my Retrospective show reception opening at the Booth Western Art Museum on November 16.

First of all, allow me to say that for a great Western Art Museum to honor me with such a event - is more than I can adequately share my feelings.  The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art held such an exhibit for me in 2019.  These come rarely in one's life, so I am indeed honored.

The show opens on November 16th and remains open til April.  The opening reception is Saturday, November 16th and everyone is invited.  The information about how to sign up is below.  If you plan to spend a night, the hotel of choice is the Marriott Courtyard in Cartersville.  Ask for the Booth Museum discount rate and maybe save a few dollars.

The charge to attend for the day is $35 per person, but if you wish to support the museum you purchase a $125 membership which allows you to visit anytime - and more.   It is well worth it in my opinion.  Jane and I have been members since they opened.   

My thanks to all the folks who have relinquished their  paintings and art for my exhibition.  In addition to the artist's paintings hanging on the walls, which is normally what is shown, this time the museum has added additional items that I have included in my works.  -- The kepi that General Cleburne is wearing in my painting "Cleburne" is the one he wore the day he was killed at the Battle of Franklin.  The Tennessee State Museum  is loaning the painting and the kepi.  Also, noted Hawken rifles and other outstanding firearms shown in the three paintings I did for Jim Stokes will be included in the exhibit - and the noted Moses Walcutt powder horn in Jim & Carolyn Dresslar's painting; collector Tom Grinslade has agreed to loan. And more.  All these generous donations make the show even better than just the paintings, and I can't thank enough all those who have given up their works to share with us.

More info can be found here.

Powder Horn by Mike Small

 

Photography by Jan Riser.

Knife by Todd Daggett

 

Photography by Jan Riser.