Detroit Lions Announcer Dan Miller's Wife Cindy Dies After Cancer Battle

Cindy Miller, the wife of longtime Detroit Lions play-by-play announcer Dan Miller, died on October 10 after a battle with cancer. She was 63. Her death came nearly two years after she was diagnosed with two brain tumors.

Dan Miller, 63, told The Detroit News that the first sign of his wife's illness was jumbled text messages she sent on the morning of October 13, 2024, while he was preparing to travel with the Lions for a game against the Dallas Cowboys. She had been suffering from severe headaches that morning, causing her to be late for her job as a preschool teacher.

Disturbed by the nonsensical texts, Dan asked his daughter, Sammi, to take Cindy to the hospital. During halftime of the Lions' game, Dan spoke with his wife, who confirmed that doctors had found two brain tumors, one of which was particularly dangerous.

Despite the devastating diagnosis, Cindy became a source of strength for her family, which includes four children and two grandchildren. She encouraged her husband to continue his work calling Lions games.

Honoring her wishes, Dan worked as much as possible until the day she died. Her passing occurred on the same day the Lions played the Arizona Cardinals, marking the first game Dan had missed in 22 years as the Lions' radio play-by-play broadcaster.

Lions head coach Dan Campbell expressed his condolences, dedicating an honorary game ball to Dan following the team's 45-21 victory over the Cardinals. "That was hard to hear, what they went through," Campbell said. "I know it's been a tough road for Dan. This is for him. Salt of the earth, man. Dan is salt of the earth, and I know this has been hard. But now I know Cindy's at peace, and we love you, Dan."

Detroit Tigers play-by-play announcer Jason Benetti filled in for Dan Miller during the broadcast. "Our thoughts are with Dan right now, all weekend, and for the future, with the loss of his wife of 33 years, Cindy, a couple of days ago," Benetti said.

Lions quarterback Jared Goff also offered his support. "We're thinking about Dan," Goff said. "We're thinking about you, Dan. Love you, man. He's an important piece of the culture here, he really is. His voice is Lions football, and he means a lot to us. He's part of our family. I talk to him weekly, and he's in our hearts right now and in all of our prayers."

Cindy, born Cynthia Biondi, met Dan when she was a Westwood One radio producer. She later became a familiar presence at Lions games. After an operation to remove tumors from her brain, her cancer returned approximately 15 months later. She was diagnosed with Leptomeningeal Disease, an aggressive form of cancer affecting the brain and spinal cord.

Her obituary described her as "charismatic, funny, fearless and full of life," known for her warmth and loyalty. She also had a significant love for animals, fostering many throughout the years.

Cindy Miller is survived by her husband, Dan; their children Sammi, Rikki, Tony, and Robbie; and grandchildren Daphne and Cecilia.