Edward W. and Marie S. Miller Fund

For Ned Miller, giving back to the Valley has never been a question -- it has been a family value, woven into the fabric of his life since childhood. Born and raised in Shelton, Ned grew up watching his parents dedicate themselves to the wellbeing of their community. Their example left an enduring impression and ultimately inspired Ned to establish the Edward W. and Marie S. Miller Fund, a Donor Advised Fund at the Valley Community Foundation (VCF), in their honor.  

“My parents instilled in us the importance of giving back to the community that gave us so much,” Ned said. “It’s really part of what I learned and saw growing up and watching them.”  

Ned’s father, Ed, embodied that ethos through decades of service, including leadership roles as board chair at both The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven and Griffin Hospital. His mother, Marie, was a registered nurse at Griffin Hospital until she stepped back to raise their family of five. Together, they modeled a life grounded in compassion, service, and responsibility and respect to others. While there was no single moment that prompted the creation of the fund, Ned always knew he would one day pay tribute to them.  

“When VCF was established 20-plus years ago, I thought at the time I would do something for them when I was older,” Ned said. “VCF gave us the opportunity to establish something that was, well, eternal. Other charitable giving is usually for a specific cause -- a one-and-done -- and I wanted something more sustaining and lasting.”  

Ned’s new fund will support the values and institutions that shaped his parents’ lives: community health, local well-being, and the organizations that strengthen the Valley. Ned hopes the fund will contribute to the Valley’s vitality for generations to come.

“I’m not sure of its long-term impact,” Ned said. “…but together with all the other funds, we can make a significant impact in the quality of life in our valley.”

Ned -- like his late parents -- is no stranger to volunteer service. He’s well known across the region for giving his time and talent to organization and causes. After graduating from St. Joseph High School and earning a degree in economics from St. Bernard College, he built a successful four-decade career in the insurance industry, ultimately serving as president of Ned Miller Associates.  

At the same time, he became one of the Valley’s most dedicated civic leaders -- chairing the Valley United Way, leading the Ansonia Rotary Club, serving the Boy Scouts, supporting youth and family causes, and contributing to numerous boards and committees.  

Today, as a VCF Board Member and proud Gates Society member, Ned continues the legacy his parents began. Establishing this fund ensures their spirit of generosity will carry forward into the future.