Dontae Miller: Remembering a Warrior
Dontae Miller, a freshman wrestler at Bluefield University, passed away in a tragic car accident, Saturday, September 23, after celebrating his 18th birthday just three days prior.
Miller was born in Staunton, VA, and grew up in Potts Creek before moving to Clifton Forge. He attended and graduated from Alleghany High School where he was a star member of the wrestling team, winning a regional championship and competing for a state title.
“Dontae was Alleghany,” said BU wrestling teammate Zachary Silver, a long-time friend and mentor who also wrestled with Miller at Alleghany High. “His hometown roots showed in everything he did.”
Silver added that Miller had a great work ethic, which showed in everything he did.
“In wrestling or school, it was evident,” Silver said. “He was the nicest human being I’ve ever met. He’d give you the shirt off his back. He wanted to be a light in everyone’s life.”
Miller came to Bluefield University to continue his wrestling career. In just two short months he made a significant impact on the campus community. His wrestling teammates shared stories of experiences with Miller, including a time when he wanted to be hydrated and energized, so he mixed Gatorade and coffee. Others spoke of a time when BU athletic trainer Steve Baldwin mentioned how people need magnesium, so Miller ate the biggest bowl of spinach.
“Dontae made us all better in our too-short time with him,” said wrestling coach Jason Waelti, “and we’re going to honor him by living our lives the way he lived his.”
In the wake of his passing, BU leaders offered students an opportunity to gather and share in the mourning of Miller with Campus Pastor Mason West and members of Counseling Services. Events were also planned to remember Miller and to pay tribute to his short time as a BU student. During those moments, students described Miller as “humble,” “dedicated,” and “inquisitive.”
“Dontae made an incredible impact on our campus community over his short time at Bluefield,” said BU Athletics Director Corey Mullins in a statement following Miller’s death. “He was a tireless worker, a committed student-athlete, and a true servant leader on campus.”
Miller was preceded in death by his parents, the late Johnny M. Miller, Sr., and Marion Miller. He is survived by his brothers Shawn Miller, Travis Miller, Tim Miller of Covington, and John D. (Samantha) Miller of Charleston, SC, three nephews, Cohen, Hudson and Dylan, and one niece, Nora.
