Remembering Lives: Departures and Legacies – September 13, 2025

In solemn remembrance, we gather to honor the lives of cherished individuals from our community whose journeys concluded recently. As we reflect on their unique stories, profound impacts, and the legacies they leave behind, we extend our deepest condolences to their families and friends. Each life celebrated today contributed immeasurably to the fabric of our community, leaving indelible marks on our hearts and minds.

We invite you to join us in commemorating their memories and offering support to those who mourn.

Johnathan “Jack” Miller (1938-2025)

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Johnathan “Jack” Miller, who peacefully departed this life on September 10, 2025, at the age of 87.

A true Lowcountry native, Jack was born and raised in Charleston, where he cultivated a life rich in service, family, and passion. A proud veteran of the United States Navy, he honorably served his country before returning home to become a respected educator for over three decades at Lincoln High School.

Jack was an avid fisherman, a masterful storyteller, and a devoted husband to his late wife, Mary. He is survived by his loving children, Sarah (David) Peterson and Michael (Emily) Miller, and five adoring grandchildren. His warmth, wisdom, and unwavering spirit will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.

A visitation will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Coastal Funeral Home, 123 Harbor Lane, Charleston.

Funeral services will be conducted on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Michael's Episcopal Church, 71 Broad Street, Charleston. Interment will follow at Live Oak Memorial Gardens.

Eleanor Vance (1955-2025)

The community mourns the loss of Eleanor Vance, a vibrant artist and tireless advocate, who passed away on September 11, 2025, at the age of 70 after a courageous battle with illness.

Eleanor, originally from Savannah, made Charleston her home in the early 1980s, quickly becoming a beacon of creativity and compassion. Her breathtaking landscape paintings captured the essence of the Carolina coast, earning her numerous accolades. Beyond her artistic talent, Eleanor dedicated countless hours to local environmental protection initiatives and animal welfare organizations.

She inspired many with her unwavering optimism and generous spirit. Eleanor is survived by her beloved sister, Patricia Vance, and a vast circle of friends who cherished her infectious laughter and profound insights.

A memorial service to celebrate Eleanor’s life will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 2:00 PM at The Art Gallery of Charleston, 456 Gallery Row, Charleston.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to the Lowcountry Animal Shelter.

Samuel “Sam” Rodriguez (1965-2025)

We sadly announce the passing of Samuel “Sam” Rodriguez, who departed this world unexpectedly on September 9, 2025, at the age of 60. A devoted father and successful entrepreneur, Sam founded Rodriguez Construction, building a reputation for integrity and excellence throughout the region.

Outside of his professional life, Sam was known for his booming laugh, his passion for youth sports coaching, and his unwavering loyalty to his family and friends. He instilled in his children a strong work ethic and a love for the outdoors, particularly fishing and camping. Sam leaves behind his two devoted children, Olivia Rodriguez and Marcus Rodriguez, his mother Maria Rodriguez, and a loving extended family.

His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy of hard work and kindness will endure.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Magnolia Cemetery, 70 Cunnington Avenue, Charleston. Friends and family are invited to gather to pay their final respects.