The Rev. Virginia A. Miner

The Rev.  Virginia A. Miner obituary, Blakely, PA

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Peckville, Pennsylvania

Virginia Miner Obituary

The Rev. Virginia A. Miner, 59, of Blakely, passed away peacefully on Monday morning shortly after 9:30 a.m., Feb. 19, 2018, at Hospice of the Sacred Heart, after a 17-year journey with cancer.

Born in Montrose, Pa., she was the daughter of Robert E. Miner, who died in 2005, and Eleanor (Cobb) Miner, who survives. She attended Montrose Area Junior-Senior High School, where she was a dedicated member of the award-winning Meteors Marching Band. More recently, she also played her trumpet as a proud member of the superb Montrose Alumni Marching Band. She earned her B.A. degree in psychology/sociology/religion from her beloved Wells College in Aurora, N.Y., where she often regaled her friends with a rousing version of reveille in the early morning hours. After attaining her Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary, Virginia, she served faithfully and well as a minister in the Presbyterian Church (USA) for 33 years.

The Rev. Miner was a gifted messenger of God. While in seminary, Virginia did her field work at First Presbyterian Church in Ithaca, N.Y., as a youth minister, serving there for two years. In 1985, she became the pastor of both the Calvin United Presbyterian Church in Olyphant and First United Presbyterian Church in Peckville. Under the Rev. Miner's steady leadership, the two churches united as one congregation within a newly constructed worship facility. The First United Presbyterian Church of the Lackawanna Valley celebrated joyously its dedication in 2013. Beloved by her congregation, the Rev. Miner gave selflessly and tirelessly in service of others.

In 2016, she began service as the Transitional General Presbyter of the Presbytery of Lackawanna. A compassionate and wise leader, she befriended her colleagues in ministry, always ready to give a word of encouragement or helping hand, especially to young ministers just starting on their journey. She offered guidance and understanding during a time of transition in the Presbytery, a steady captain in changing seas.

The Rev. Miner served as a longtime leader of the Mid-Valley Ministerium, smoothing the path for ecumenical cooperation in the Lackawanna Valley. Her love for children was evidenced in her work at Camp Lackawanna, which spanned nearly 40 years, and encompassed tasks ranging from retreat cook to chairwoman. Always wanting to nurture young people, she taught religion and spirituality as an adjunct professor of theology at Marywood University.

An advocate for social justice, the Rev. Miner traveled to Nicaragua and later to the southwestern border of the United States. These trips affected her deeply, and she became a tireless voice for the poor and disenfranchised throughout her ministry. She also served faithfully as a member of the governing board of Stony Point Center, a Presbyterian conference and retreat center in Stony Point, N.Y.

In 2015, she was honored to be awarded the Gov. Robert P. Casey Medal for a Lifetime of Service by NeighborWorks NEPA. The award acknowledges individuals in the community who have faithfully invested their time and talents to better the quality of life in Northeast Pa.

Virginia loved the Chicago Bears, the beach and the outdoors, especially golfing and in earlier days, skiing. In her quest to visit every state in the country, she checked off 49 of 50 states. A person of great wisdom and intellect, Virginia enjoyed reading and amassed a collection of books over the years.

Most of all, she loved her family and friends, sharing her kindness, generous spirit and sense of humor. The Rev. Virginia Miner was a shining example of what it means to be truly alive, to be genuinely kind and to be a servant to others.

In addition to her mother, she is survived by her sister, attorney Natalie B. Miner, who lives in Central New York; and her brother, attorney James R. Miner, his wife, Dawn Miner, Ph.D., and dearly beloved nephews, Joshua and Nicholas, who reside in Northern Virginia. She is also survived by her closest friend, Margo Tomlinson; and her dog, Callie.

The family is grateful for the tremendous showing of care and support by so many. Calling hours will be held Saturday, March 3, from 4 to 7 p.m. at First United Presbyterian Church of the Lackawanna Valley, Peckville. A memorial service will be held Sunday, March 4, at 4 p.m. at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 550 Madison Ave., Scranton. Funeral arrangements are by the Robert E. Decker Funeral Home, Peckville. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the First United Presbyterian Church of Lackawanna Valley (1557 Main St., Peckville, PA 18452); and to NeighborWorks NEPA (1510 N. Main Ave., Scranton, PA 18508).

Published by Scranton Times from Feb. 21 to Feb. 25, 2018.
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Memories and Condolences
for Virginia Miner

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VA as she always signed posts is still missed today as the day she left us. The countless times she listened to my woes an came to visit my sick husband will always be in my heart. So missed, life has changed since she left our world.

Argia Caines

February 15, 2019

My sincere condolences to Rev. Virginia's family & friends. I am very grateful & truly blessed to know VA. I began as a student of hers. I was so intrigued by her personality, thoughts and the way she looked at things in perspective.I attended her church shortly afterwards. She was their for me in my good & bad times. She married my husband & I. She gave me strength to face my fears,and believed in me. She was the truest human being I've ever known.Very fascinating, compassionate, and loving person that I've enjoyed her company and will miss deeply.

Jennifer Hinkley

March 7, 2018

Virginia and I were students at Princeton Seminary. She kept things lively with her good humor. There was a unusual puzzle (spilled milk) for us to work on outside her dorm room at Brown Hall. We both did internships in NY state and would hike Buttermilk falls near Ithaca together on our days off. Virginia was a faithful friend and inspiration to all. What a blessing to know her! Heaven's getting crowded! The trumpets are sounding! Thanks be to God! Alleluia! Alleluia!

Rev. Katie Ward Stear

March 2, 2018

The world has lost a true servant, Virginia Miner, but heaven has gained a great soul. My sincerest condolences to the entire Miner family. Virginia was a gift to the world, and especially to those of us who loved her. God has her in his loving arms now. Well done, thou good and faithful servant. I pray our Father's peace and comfort for all of the Miner family.

Louise Smith

February 28, 2018

I had the pleasure of having Rev. Miner for two religion classes at Marywood. Her loss came as a shock and a deepened sadness. None of her students knew her health struggles, even as a nursing major she never shared her personal problems. The most humble, nonjudgemental human being I've had the pleasure of gaining knowledge from. I will never forget her passion, knowledge, and intimate discussions we all shared. I know her faith inspired many, including myself. May she rest peacefully with the Lord.

Rachelle

February 28, 2018

So very sorry for the loss. For a number of years the Miner family lived near us in Sanfordville outside of Montrose. She was a true servant of God. Rest In Peace Rev.Virgiia.

Ann & Temple Smith

February 28, 2018

Prayers of sympathy to Virginia's family and also to Pastor Margo. Prayers of rejoice for Virginia as she greets her new life.
Virginia shared times of sadness and events of gladness with my family and we thank God we had her aboard.

Janet Kitchen Borick

February 27, 2018

My condolences to Rev. Miner's family and friends while they mourn the loss of a wonderful woman. I was a student of hers at Marywood University and she truly left an impact on every student. I am thankful to have known her and to have learned about life and God from her. She will be truly missed.

Brittany Dosch

February 27, 2018

wITH DEEP SADNESS. I give my thought,prayers and condolence to your family and to Margo Tomilson. Virginia will be so missed. She married my children baptized my grand children and baptized my great grand babies. She was my mentor and helped me thru trying times. She certainly is A chosen one of God and I know she went to him with dignity like she live. RIP Virginia

Argia Caines

February 27, 2018

Deepest sympathy to the Miner family, friends and Rev Virginia's fellow clergy. Serving as VNA Chaplain for several years, Rev Virginia is remembered as a prayerful, calming presence to all. The spirit of one so special will never be forgotten.

VNA Hospice and Home Health

February 26, 2018

Our family is heart broke.What a loss for our church and a great gain for Heaven. I was honored to be Virginia's very first wedding after she was ordained and again honored and sad to be her very last in June of 2017, She has been a part of my family's lives for so many years as she has for others,I cannot stress enough how much she will me missed. Our deepest sympathy to you. Lisa Yantorn, Rafie Fahiz, Alice Yantorn & Craig Horrocks

Lisa Yantorn

February 26, 2018

To the family and friends of Rev. Virginia Miner; deepest sympathy for your loss. A truly wonderful and spiritual person who touched so many lives who will be missed greatly. Rest In Peace.

Nadine Kowalsky Kanuik

February 26, 2018

What a beautiful lady and wondered leader of people and especially the strayed sheep.
I first had the privilege of workering with Virginia in Peckville Midvalley.
She was an added asset to the ministering.
May you her family be comforted by your memories of her and be consoled by your faith

Father Ron Hughes

February 25, 2018

A wonderful pastor and friend. She will be greatly missed in the community.

Friend

February 23, 2018

I first met Virginia over 35 years ago, when both she and I were attending the United States Army Chaplain Center & School in Monmouth, New Jersey. I knew even then that I was looking at a "rising star" among God's faithful children. May the good Lord hold her close to his bosom forever.

Rev. Dr. Murray Thompson

February 23, 2018

What a wonderful person. She performed our marriage in 2011, Every time I asked her to help us out at the funeral home giving prayers for someone who had no church affiliation, she was right there. it was so easy to talk to her. I will keep her in my prayers always and also her family. RIP my friend.

Roseann Margotta-Gilgallon

February 23, 2018

Virginia was the real deal. She lived Christ's example. Peace.
Condolences to all who loved her.

Faith Harrell

February 23, 2018

A wonderful woman who accomplished much in her too short life. My thoughts and prayers are with her family. Barbara Carey

February 22, 2018

The peace and grace she extended to everyone she met will always be remembered. Rest In Peace.

Judy Cutler

February 22, 2018

I had the pleasure of working with Rev. Miner while in college at Marywood University and then after college in an organist job. She was a wonderful teacher...both at Marywood and in everyday life. I still remember discussions we had regarding class material - honestly one of the only classes I can say that about.
I loved to hear Rev. Virginia speak at the various Lenten services - she was/is definitely a favorite of mine.
Reverend, you will be greatly missed and the Ministerium has a great void to try and fill. Fly High among the angels and prepare a place beside your Saviour. Rest in peace, friend. You've earned it.

Wendy Laird

February 22, 2018

Rest in peace my friend. I will remember you as a beautiful example of His love & friendship. Heartfelt condolences to your family.

Mary (Welden)Stasko

February 22, 2018

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Kazmin Lewis

Student

February 22, 2018

I had the pleasure of working with Rev. Miner while in college at Marywood University and then after college in an organist job. She was a wonderful teacher...both at Marywood and in everyday life. I still remember discussions we had regarding class material - honestly one of the only classes I can say that about.
I loved to hear Rev. Virginia speak at the various Lenten services - she was/is definitely a favorite of mine.
Reverend, you will be greatly missed and the Ministerium has a great void to try and fill. Fly High among the angels and prepare a place beside your Saviour. Rest in peace, friend. You've earned it.

Wendy Laird

February 22, 2018

You impacted my life in a very special way while you were a professor of mine at Marywood and I thank you. I know that you are in peace now.

Dawn Talley

February 21, 2018

I am so sorry for your loss thoughts and prayers are with the family of Virginia, I had her as a camp counselor at Camp Lackawanna and loved her. She had such a lovely heart.

Theresa (Teri) Pushinaitis

February 21, 2018

May you rest in peace Virginia,and may your family find solace in the fact that you are one of God's special angels

Michele Tucker

February 21, 2018

God has called another Angel home.

February 21, 2018

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