On the Passing of Steve Miller
Steve Miller, best known for the long-running Liaden Universe® series of space opera stories and novels, coauthored with his beloved wife and partner Sharon Lee, died February 20, 2024, in their home in Waterville, Maine. He was 73.
Steve had been fighting heart trouble for several years and, old newspaperman that he was, had prepped his obituary for the trade months before. Steve had worked many jobs before becoming a full time writer, including managing early BBS systems, acting as an internet librarian, owning and managing a science fiction themed used bookstore and art gallery with his wife, and acting as a freelance reporter for many Baltimore area and national publications.
Steve leaves behind a legacy that has profoundly shaped the landscape of science fiction and inspired a generation of new writers. Last year saw the publication of their 100th collaboration together, the national best-selling science fiction novel Salvage Right; Ribbon Dance, also a Liaden novel, is scheduled for release in June 2024, and Sharon intends to continue the series as they had planned.
Steve’s interest in chess was lifelong. He was a member of the University of Maryland Baltimore County Chess League, a U.S. Chess Federation Tournament Director, President of the Owings Mills Chess Club, President of the Waterville Chess Club, and ran numerous tournaments in many venues. He was part of Waterville’s Main Chess League championship team in 1998.
We at Baen honor not only his remarkable literary achievements but also the warmth, kindness, and boundless imagination that defined him as both an author and a friend. “He was one of the good guys,” said his publisher Toni Weisskopf. “A true light shining in the science fiction community.” In this time of sorrow, our thoughts and condolences are with Sharon Lee, and the countless fans whose lives have been touched by Steve’s legacy.
Steve was predeceased by his father, Donald Miller of Madeira Beach, FL, his stepfather, Ronald L. Moore, Sr., and his mother, Helen Moore. Survived by his wife, Sharon Lee, and siblings Donald George Miller (Kim), Craig Edward Miller (Brenda), Cindy Rex (Ron Prietz Sr.), Roland L. Moore, Jr. (Kay) and numerous nieces and nephews.