Former Watford, Barnsley and Exeter City goalkeeper Kevin Miller has died suddenly at the age of 57.
Miller passed away unexpectedly overnight on Tuesday, just months after beginning a new chapter in his coaching career with Wigan Athletic.
The former goalkeeper had joined Wigan over the summer as the club’s goalkeeping coach, reuniting with Gary Caldwell after stepping down from his position as Devon’s goalkeeping coach in June.
His sudden death has left Wigan deeply saddened, with the League One club describing Miller as a much-loved and respected member of their first-team staff.
“Although Kevin’s time with Latics was far too short, he quickly became a much-loved and respected member of our first team staff,” Wigan Athletic said in a statement posted on their website.
“His experience, professionalism and passion for goalkeeping were clear for all to see, while his uplifting personality made a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him.
“Kevin’s contribution to football was significant, but for those who worked alongside him, it was the person he was that will be remembered most.
“Kevin was a husband, father, hugely respected colleague, dedicated coach and someone who made a genuine impact on those around him, both on and off the pitch.
“His sudden passing has left everyone at the club deeply saddened and devastated.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Kevin’s wife, Fiona, daughter, Esme, close family, friends, colleagues and all who knew and loved him.”
Miller built a long career in English football, representing several clubs during his playing days.
He featured for Exeter City, Crystal Palace, Barnsley and Watford, while also having spells with Birmingham, Bristol Rovers, Southampton, Torquay United and Bodmin Town.
His career eventually moved into coaching, where he continued to make an impact in goalkeeping roles.
Miller had been working as Devon’s goalkeeping coach before leaving the position in June. He then made the move to Wigan during the summer, where he reunited with Caldwell.
The timing of his passing has made the news particularly painful for those who had only recently welcomed him into the Wigan setup.
Exeter City also paid an emotional tribute to their former goalkeeper, highlighting the lasting impression he made during his time in Devon.
The club said it was “saddened to hear of the sudden passing of club legend Kevin Miller”, adding that his time “in Devon left a lasting impression on those around the club”.
Miller’s death brings an abrupt end to a football journey that spanned playing, coaching and multiple generations of the English game.
For Wigan, Exeter and the many clubs connected to his career, the focus now turns away from football and towards remembering the person behind the gloves.
A goalkeeper, coach, husband, father and colleague, Miller leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond his appearances on the pitch.
At just 57, his passing has sent shockwaves through the football community, with tributes now coming from the clubs and people who knew him throughout a career defined by his commitment to goalkeeping and the relationships he built along the way.
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