Kevin Miller, the former Exeter City, Crystal Palace, Watford and Barnsley goalkeeper, has died aged 57. He passed away unexpectedly overnight on Tuesday while working as Wigan Athletic’s goalkeeping coach.
Miller had moved to the Latics over the summer to re-unite with former Exeter boss Gary Caldwell, having stepped down as the Devon club’s goalkeeping coach in June. Wigan paid tribute to a man whose time at the club proved far too short but who quickly became a much-loved and respected member of the first-team staff. The club said his experience, professionalism and passion for goalkeeping were clear for all to see, and that his uplifting personality left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him. Wigan described him as a husband, father, hugely respected colleague and dedicated coach who made a genuine impact on those around him, both on and off the pitch, adding that his sudden passing had left everyone at the club deeply saddened and devastated. The club’s thoughts and prayers were extended to his wife Fiona, daughter Esme, close family, friends, colleagues and all who knew and loved him.
Exeter said Miller had earned a place in the hearts of supporters with his performances between the posts and his wholehearted commitment to the club. In a tribute, his former club recalled a commanding presence and a fierce competitive spirit as a player, and described his passing at just 57 as a huge loss to his family, friends and everyone who knew him. Exeter sent its deepest condolences to his family and friends and said its thoughts were also with Caldwell and the club’s former staff at Wigan. The club added that his time in Devon left a lasting impression on those around Exeter City and that his contribution remains a big part of the club’s story, and confirmed it will support those who were close to him and commemorate his time there and his memory in an appropriate way.
A goalkeeper who came through the Cornish non-league scene with Newquay and Falmouth Town, Miller joined Exeter City in 1989 and helped the club to the fourth-tier title during a 200-game spell. He moved to Birmingham City for a season in 1993 and then spent three years at Watford, twice winning player of the season, before joining Premier League Crystal Palace in 1997 for a fee of £1.5m. He played in all 38 games as Palace were relegated from the top flight in 1998 and was first choice in the subsequent Division One campaign as the Eagles finished 14th.
Miller left Palace that summer to begin a three-year spell at Barnsley, before returning to Exeter City in 2002 for a season. Two years at Bristol Rovers followed, then short spells at Southampton and Torquay United, with his career also including a playing stint at Bodmin Town in his native Cornwall. Across his time in the professional game he made 738 appearances in total. In two spells at Exeter he played 252 games, later returning to the club as part of the coaching staff.