Marion Miller

Marion Ellen Miller, 97, of Roanoke, Va., passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 7, 2009. Marion was preceded in death by her parents, Homer Ardene Miller and Lora Grose Miller; as well as her brother, George Bernard "Pete" Miller. She is survived by her childhood and life long friend, Kathryn Tully; and devoted friend, Beth Ann Hoskins, both of Roanoke. Marion was born on April 2, 1911, in Lookout, W.Va. After her elementary and high school education in West Virginia, Marion attended Shenandoah College in Dayton, Va., as did her mother and brother. She earned a bachelor of arts from Glenville State Teachers College in West Virginia and a masters of arts from GeorgePeabody College for Teachers in Nashville, Tenn. Marion's career included teaching in a one room school house, elementary education and school administration as a principal. Though she never had any children of her own, she said that she considered all the children that she taught her own. When asked what she taught, she replied, "Children." Marion was an avid reader and talented painter. She was a long time member of the Church of the Redeemer in Ansted, W.Va. After retiring to Roanoke 20 years ago, Marion joined Saint James Episcopal Church. Her work in the church included volunteering with the Little Church Social Club and the Altar Guild. Marion was a member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society, a professional educators' organization, and the Daughters of the King. A memorial service will be held 10 a.m. on Thursday, February 12, 2009, at Saint James with a reception to follow in the Parish Hall. Marion will be buried beside her mother and brother at the Restlawn Memory Garden in Victor, W.Va., 11 a.m. on Friday, February 13, 2009. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Church of the Redeemer, 102 West Main Street, Ansted, W.Va. 25812 or to Saint James Episcopal Church, 4515 Delray St., N.W., Roanoke, Va. 24012. Arrangements are being handled by Simpson Funeral Home in Roanoke, Va., and Wallace and Wallace Funeral Home in West Virginia.