Dear June:

On January 17, 1973, you changed the life of a young boy forever.

"Little Billy Miller," as you so often called me, had finally made his way to a Johnny Cash concert in Denver, Colorado after dreaming about seeing you and Johnny in person since he was nine years old. It was the most exciting day of my life.

During the concert I saw you standing in the hallway preparing to join John on stage and I mustered up all the courage I had to approach you. I made my way over and before I could open my mouth, you said "Well hi son, what’s your name?" I responded and asked you to sign the giant fan club button pinned to my shirt, which you so graciously did. We posed for a picture and you received your call to go on stage. At that very moment, I knew that no matter how seemingly impossible they may be, dreams could come true.

Little did I know that our brief encounter would be the first of many, many meetings over the next 30 years. I never dreamed that you and John would let the little blonde headed kid sneak backstage and visit with you as you always did … with such kindness, such generosity and such love. You generously made me a part of your extended family, and the excitement and anticipation of our every encounter never waned even as I grew into a man. And, as I grew into a man, only you and my mother continued to call me Billy.

I’ve watched you deal with fans a hundred times. Each person always left with a smile on his face and warmth in his heart after shaking your hand. You always had the right words for the folks, whether it was the bellman opening your door at the hotel, or a fan chasing you down after a show. You always smiled and made them feel like they mattered, and I believe that’s because you really did care about each and every person who approached you.

When I went to your memorial service, I felt like I should carry that very fan club pin you signed and the picture of us with me. Since they represented the manifestation of a young boy’s dream, I’d always cherished them … perhaps as much as any other material possessions I have. I showed them to John at your memorial service and he held them in his hands … the expression on his face made few words necessary.

Thank you, June, for a lifetime full of fond memories, not only from me, but from millions of fans who never had the honor of meeting you personally. They really do love you.

Will you meet me in heaven some day? I’ll be looking for that beautiful smile and warm embrace …

With much love and gratitude,

Bill "Little Billy" Miller