Paul E. Miller, 92, founder of Paul Miller Ford, passed away on June 27, 2014, with his family at his side.
As founder of Paul Miller Ford-Mazda, Paul E. Miller was well-known in the Central Kentucky community and a business leader recognized throughout the Bluegrass and beyond.
On April 17, 2014, Miller took part in the celebration at the dealership for the 50th anniversary of the Ford Mustang. Miller greeted Governor Steve Beshear, First Lady Jane Beshear and Lexington Mayor Jim Gray. At that event, Mayor Gray said, “Family businesses, such as Paul Miller Ford and Ford Motor Co., are the backbone of our nation.”
After serving in World War II, Miller sold cars for a Charleston dealership and quickly moved to management positions.In 1953, he got the nod to help open one in Lexington, and he became president and general manager.
Grandson J.P. Miller Jr., Paul Miller Autogroup President and General Manager, said, “We date the beginning of the dealership to the time my grandfather came to Lexington.” Two years later, Miller bought the owner’s share of the dealership at 255 East Main Street and changed its name to Paul Miller Ford.
The business grew too large for the Main Street location over the next decade and Miller purchased six acres at 975 New Circle Road, near the Winchester Road intersection. Lexington architect Helm Roberts designed the building and its unusual roofline.
Information about funeral services and memorials will be posted as they become available.
