James Barry Miller
July 15, 1965 - April 11, 2017
Jimmy was sent to teach us unconditional love
James Barry Miller, 51, Born July 15th, 1965 in Seattle WA, died April 11th, 2017 at Home in Arlington. Jim came to live with Tim and Vicki Adams and family in 1975 at 9 years old. He was adopted and lived with them till his death. Jim had down syndrome, autism, was mentally about age 3, and had no speech, yet made his presence very known. He loved music, He loved being part of Voices of the Village, the music program at VCS and performed with them; rocking, pounding on the keyboard, and moving the chairs around. He enjoyed his after music meals at Denny’s, watching TV, rearranging furniture at home, and wiping his nose and lips on the windows of the home and any car he was in, and let us not forget his obsession with flickering lights and locking all the doors.
He worked at Village Community Services (VCS), Arlington, for 29 years, doing several different jobs ending with paper shredding at the VCS office and Smokey Point Community Church with his wonderful counselor Kate. We are all better people due to sharing life with Jimmy, the sparkle in his eye, and silent but physical presence will be greatly missed. He loved his family and extended family, whether he gave a hug, grabbed your ankle and tossed your shoes, or giving you a surprise goosing…you knew you were loved by Jim and he had lots of people who loved him.
He is survived by his parents, Tim and Vicki Adams, siblings John Adams, and Malynda McCarter. He was preceded in death by his brother Sean, who was his constant companion for 35 years. He had many special family members and friends, Kimmy and Randy, Diona, and their families, Nieces and Nephews, Damon, Dylan, Demri, Kia, Kennedy. They were his childhood family, that drug Jimmy around, dressing him up and playing Super heroes.
Jimmy received wonderful care through Dr. David Janway, and his dentist Dr. Jeff Huleatt. Acquiring care for people with developmental disabilities can be difficult. Jimmy was very fortunate to have these people on his team.
We know the Lord sent Jimmy to us to teach us unconditional love, patience, not putting our expectations on others, just accepting them right where they’re at, and to not sweat the small stuff.
FUNERAL INFORMATION
Please join us on Sunday May 7th 2017 at Smokey Point Community Church, at 4:00 PM to celebrate Jimmy’s life. 17721 Smokey Point Blvd Arlington WA.
DONATIONS
In lieu of flowers please make a designated tax deductible gift to the Music Program through Village Community Services, who gave Jimmy a great community to be a part of.
3210 Smokey Pt Drive Suite 200 Arlington WA 98223.