08/04/2026
Kanawha County Commission Mourns the Loss of Former United States Attorney and Kanawha County Prosecutor Chuck Miller
Charleston, W.Va. – The Kanawha County Commission is deeply saddened to learn about the passing of former United States Attorney and Kanawha County Prosecutor Chuck Miller.
Chuck grew up on a Jackson County farm where he would wake up at dawn, complete his farm chores, and then take a long bus ride to school each day. His mother was committed to providing every opportunity she could for Chuck, so she moved them to Lincoln County where he attended Hurricane High School, graduating at age 16.
After graduating from high school, Chuck enlisted in the United States Navy at the age of 17 and was ordered to Vietnam as a Combat Medic attached to the First Marine Division. Chuck was later commissioned as a First Lieutenant in the West Virginia Army National Guard, where he served as a Judge Advocate General. Fourteen years later, he was recruited by the West Virginia Air National Guard where he served as its Judge Advocate General.
Eventually, Chuck was assigned as the legal advisor to the Director of the Air National Guard in Washington, D.C. and retired as a Colonel after 42 years of Military service winning awards including Meritorious Service Medals, and the Legion of Merit Medal. Later, Chuck was a Freemason at Dunbar Lodge No. 159, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons and a Beni Kedem Shriner.
Chuck was an exceptional leader as a Kanawha County Deputy Sheriff, Kanawha County Prosecuting Attorney, and as the United States Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia serving two United States Presidents between 2005 and 2009.
Chuck successfully prosecuted and tried many public corruption, civil rights and other federal crimes, receiving numerous awards, honors, and accolades. At a time when a lesser man would have gladly retired to enjoy a happy reflection consequent upon a well-spent life, Chuck again, stepped up to public service. Chuck decided that there was still more work to be done, and returned to the Kanawha County Prosecuting Attorney's Office, to continue his faithful public service. He was later appointed and subsequently elected as the Kanawha County Prosecuting Attorney where he would lead the fight for justice throughout all levels of law enforcement. He was appointed Kanawha County Prosecutor in 2014 and was later elected to the position in 2016. Miller served in that role until his retirement in 2024.
His leadership at the Prosecutor's Office was inspiring to all the assistant prosecuting attorneys and staff. Chuck truly exemplified the highest ideals of service, integrity, and sacrifice. He served with honor, virtue and utmost integrity. A tenacious and honorable leader, Chuck generously provided guidance, wisdom, and encouragement to those around him. Chuck has been an invaluable asset to the people and will be sorely missed by all.
“Chuck Miller was a dedicated public servant,” said Ben Salango, President of the Kanawha County Commission. “Chuck served his Country with honor in the Vietnam War and served our State and County with dignity as United States Attorney and Kanawha County Prosecuting Attorney,” he added. “Tera and I are saddened to learn of Chuck’s passing, and we are praying for his wife, Becky, and his family and friends during this difficult time,” Salango concluded.
Despite the many accomplishments Chuck achieved throughout his life, he always believed his greatest success in life was the family that he built. A devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather, Chuck cherished his wife, children, and grandchildren above all else. His unwavering love, steadfast support, and absolute devotion to his family were the defining hallmarks of his life.
Chuck will be laid to rest at the Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans’ Cemetery with full honors.
The Kanawha County Commission has ordered County flags to be flown at half-staff and a black drape to be placed on the judicial building in his memory.
