Thomas E. Miller, 79, of Englewood, Fla., passed away Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2012, at Tidewell Hospice House in Venice, Fla.

He was born in Omaha, Neb., Sept. 6, 1933.

Thomas was a jockey and spent his life until retirement working at Thoroughbred Race Tracks throughout the U.S. and Canada. He always had time to tell numerous stories and jokes to all his friends. Thomas will be missed dearly by all. He also was a veteran in the U.S. Army, and served most of his time in Germany.

Thomas is survived by his devoted companion, Joan Kotlar; sister, Kay Latham (Doug) Hammond of Indiana; brother, Robert (Darlene) Miller of Omaha; brother-in-law, Jim Shook of Lincoln, Neb.; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Ethel Miller; sister, Rose Shook; and brother, James Miller.

Arrangements are by Berger Funeral Home and Science Care.