Remembering Ralph Miller: August 13, 1948 – March 5, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ralph Miller, a giant in the world of labor rights, a passionate advocate for justice, and a beloved leader in the AFSCME family. Ralph's impact on our union, his lifelong dedication to workers' rights, and his pioneering work in both sports and labor movements will be remembered for years to come.

Please share a story about how Ralph Miller impacted your life. Whether it was through his leadership, his advocacy for workers’ rights, or his personal kindness, we’d love to hear how Ralph made a difference for you. Your story could highlight a specific moment, an ongoing influence, or simply how his dedication to the union and his community left a lasting impression. Please feel free to be as detailed as you'd like.

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Early Life and Football Legacy

Ralph Miller was born on August 13, 1948, in Alabama. He attended Alabama State University before graduating from California Lutheran University, where he earned recognition not only for his academic excellence but also for his leadership. As chair of the Black Student Union and a key player on the university’s national championship football team, Ralph’s passion for both academics and athletics shone brightly.

Ralph’s football career was as impressive as his academic one. He played for multiple professional teams, including the New Orleans Saints, Houston Oilers, Philadelphia Eagles, San Diego Chargers, New York Giants, and San Francisco 49ers. He also had stints in the Canadian Football League with the Ottawa Roughriders and Toronto Argonauts, and in the World Football League. However, Ralph’s most profound legacy in the sport was his work as a founding member of the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA) and as a player representative in all three major leagues. Alongside Kermit Alexander, he took a stand against the NFL in 1974, successfully suing to establish the Alexander Rule, ensuring players received their full salaries during strikes and even a share of team income.

Transition to Labor Advocacy

After retiring from professional football, Ralph made the decision to serve his community in a new capacity. In 1976, he joined the Los Angeles County Probation Department, where he worked in various roles, including Central Juvenile Hall, Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall, Camp Barley Flats, and the East L.A. Area Office. Ralph quickly rose through the ranks and became a union steward in 1977, just three months after joining the department.

Ralph’s union journey was marked by his commitment to improving the lives of probation officers and their families. In 1978, he was elected to the Local 685 Executive Board, and in 1997, he became the union president—a position he held with great pride for 21 years until his retirement in 2018. Under Ralph's leadership, Local 685 achieved landmark victories, including:

• Negotiated:

  • Pay increases of more than 600%,

  • A longevity bonus that exceeds today’s safety retirement benefits,

  • A dollar-for-dollar employer match, up to 4%, on contributions to the deferred retirement account, and

  • A uniform allowance.

• Secured protections for members working in AB 109 protections assignments.

• Achieved the right for officers working in the specialized units to be armed.

• Saved billions of dollars in funding for LA County Probation and blocked the closure of certain probation camps for many years.

Ralph didn’t just stop with these accomplishments. Even after retirement, he remained a steadfast advocate for union members. He continued to lend his expertise and wisdom to the union’s political advocacy efforts, influencing decisions at the local, state, and federal levels. His relentless drive for justice led him to serve on various influential boards and commissions, including the California Criminal Justice Committee, the California Probation Services Task Force, and the Pasadena Human Services Commission.

Organizational Leadership

Ralph Miller’s leadership extended beyond Local 685, as he held significant roles in several organizations, including:

• President, AFSCME Local 685 (L.A. County Probation Officers Union)

• International Vice President for the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME)

• Treasurer, Coalition of County Unions (CCU)

• Vice President, L.A. County Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO

• Member, Board of Directors, African-American Community and Labor Leaders Alliance (ACLLA)

• Member, Board of Directors, California Coalition of Law Enforcement Associations (CCLEA)

• Member, Board of Directors, Southern California Association of Law Enforcement (SCALE)

• Member, Board of Directors, LA COPS (LA County Organization of Police and Sheriffs)

• President, Vice President, and Treasurer, AFSCME California P.E.O.P.L.E.

• President and Vice President, AFSCME Council 36

• Commissioner, CA Criminal Justice Committee (appointed by L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa)

• Commissioner, CA Probation Services Task Force (appointed by Chief Justice Ronald George)

• Commissioner, Pasadena Human Services Commission (appointed by Mayor Jess Houston)

• President, Pasadena Family Center (drug and alcohol treatment center for families)

Ralph Miller was a tireless fighter for workers' rights, a respected voice in labor negotiations, and a trailblazer for future generations. His contributions to our union and beyond have left an indelible mark on all of us.

A Lasting Legacy

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Ralph found joy and fulfillment in spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He was known for his love of fishing, often finding peace and contentment on the water, surrounded by those he cherished most. Ralph's deep connection to his family – both his personal and labor family – was a cornerstone of his life, and his legacy will live on not only through his labor achievements but also through the countless memories he created with his loved ones.

Ralph Miller passed away peacefully on March 5, 2025, surrounded by his family. His life’s work, however, will continue to inspire and guide us as we carry forward the fight for fairness, equality, and justice in our workplaces and communities.

We extend our deepest condolences to Ralph’s family and loved ones. His leadership, dedication, and unyielding commitment to justice will never be forgotten. Ralph Miller was a true champion of the people, and his legacy will live on in the victories he helped secure for all of us.

Rest in power, Ralph. Your legacy will never fade.

In Memoriam: Ralph Miller

August 13, 1948 – March 5, 2025