WASHINGTON – The Wilson Center and Kennan Institute family deeply mourn the passing of Ambassador William Green Miller (1931-2019), a statesman of the very highest merit, a scholar and poet, and a humanitarian.
His early career included postings in Iran and in the Secretary of State’s office in Washington. His first posting in Iran was to the American Consulate in Isfahan. He became fascinated with Iranian culture and history. He and his wife, Suzanne, came to know and form friendships with many of the leading families in Isfahan, not only those in local government, but also people in many walks of life.
In a city famous for its handicrafts and fine work in metals, silver, and woods, they were frequent visitors to various shops collecting local handicrafts. Mr. Miller commissioned one of the city’s finest metalworkers to create a replica of a centuries-old astrolabe. He became an advocate for projects intended to preserve and enhance Isfahan’s ancient water resources.