Carolyn Joyce Miller

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Stephen F. Austin State University

Carolyn Miller Obituary

CAROLYN JOYCE MILLER, age 70, went Home to her Heavenly Father December 23, 2008 following a battle with a recent illness while in Tomball Regional Hospital. Her sister, Pat, Cheryl and several close friends were at her side. Carolyn was born in Palestine, TX to Garland E. and Mildred L. Redmond Miller. She leaves behind those thankful she is no longer suffering and finally at peace her sister Pat Calcote, niece Cheryl Platzer, nieces, nephew, great nieces, nephews, numerous friends around the country, and her constant canine companion, Sandy. Carolyn was a native of Tucker, TX graduating from Woodhouse HS in 1956 attaining multiple honors in sports and a State Homemaking Degree. She attended Wayland Baptist College, 1956-60, on a full basketball scholarship which was rare for Women's Basketball at that time. She was a three time All-American, contributed to the longest winning streak in women's collegiate history, of 133 games and won the National Free-throw championship in 1959. She played extensively in the international arena playing the Russians in Madison Square Garden, was a member on the USA Russian Tour, the World Tournament Team, played in the USA Pan American Games and in South America. She served as Manager of the USA Junior Team competing in South America in 1968. Prior to her retirement in 1988 she taught and coached for 29 years in several Texas Institutions including Stephen F. Austin State University leading the SFA women's basketball team to their first State Title. She was a member of the US Olympic Committee from 1967-1971 and then again as a member of the US Olympic Women's Basketball Committee from 1973-1976 working with and helping select the teams playing in the Olympics and Pan American Games. Carolyn's most recent accomplishment, 1998, was her induction into Wayland's Athletic Hall of Honor. The family would like to express heartfelt thanks to Dr. Daljit Muttiana; Dr. James Onorato; Dr. Edward Terrasson and staff, Cheryl and Terry; and Dr. Amy Walsh for their care, dedication, and compassion for Carolyn's unbelievable strength and strong will to live over the years. Carolyn will be missed dearly by family and numerous friends nationally, as well as those who knew and remember her locally. At her request, her ashes will be taken to several places she loved. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of normal remembrances please make donations to the SPCA, other Animal Rescue Organizations or the charity of your choice. You may leave a tribute at www.magnoliafunerals.com.

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Published by Houston Chronicle on Jan. 4, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Carolyn Miller

9 Entries

Bobbye and Pat

January 23, 2009

Carolyn touched our lives in a special way. There are so many things we could say about her, but we will touch on just a few. She was such an inspiration to us for her unfailing courage, smile and good humor. She made us feel like we were her best friends and we know that she had many, many other friends.
We had some great poker games and good food, both of which she enjoyed so much. One game in particular, we played while she was on one of her many stays in the hospital. When the nurse came in, we thought we were going to get kicked out. Carolyn laughed and said she wished they WOULD kick her out.
People say that you know a good person if children and animals like them. We are not sure about the children, but she was a MAGNET to animals. Dogs and cats would just jump in her lap and lay down, waiting to be petted. That was wonderful to see and she loved every minute of it.
She had a really nice tomato patch and encouraged us to plant some too, which we did, but ours were not nearly as big or as good as Carolyn's. She always asked about our tomatoes. Whenever they produce, we smile and think of her.
Our lives were enhanced by her presence.
We will forever truly miss our "Queen of Hearts".
Our deep love is with her family and friends.

Carol "Cricket" Vaughn

January 18, 2009

Here is to ONE Beautiful Lady..I greatly admired her when I was only in Junior High School because she was a Flying Queen. Then when I played for SFA, guess who showed up. Carolyn touched many hearts and was a great friend to all who she came in contact with. God Bless and She Will Be Forever in My Heart..

David Youngblood

January 15, 2009

Carolyn was a wonderful person. We worked together at Taylor High School and what good times we had....so many laughs and special times that made our jobs so much fun. Carolyn had a special gift of friendship that she shared with so many. All of us that had the pleasure of knowing and working with Carolyn will miss her greatly. Heaven will enjoy having her there.

Bob and LaVerne Stokes

January 14, 2009

Carolyn was like family to the Stokes
family. We loved to tell stories of how she made us all laugh and was just amazing on the court. She and Dad can now talk hoops! Pat and family we wish that we could be with you at this special time of remembering a great friend and part of our heart

DELORES STROUD

January 14, 2009

DEAR PAT AND FAMILY, I WAS SO SADDENED TO HEAR ABOUT CAROLYNS' DEATH. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU.

Delores Raney Guess

January 5, 2009

Coach Miller was my coach at Pearland High School. I admired her and hoped that I could be the athletic she was. I send my thoughts and prayers to the family.

Jerial Wayne & Linda Atkinson

January 4, 2009

Saddend to hear of Carolyn's death. She was a co-worker of mine and I was a target of her many practical jokes at Taylor High School in Katy.She has many who will remember her as a sweet and loving person.

Louise Grace

January 1, 2009

I have known Carolyn since we competed in basketball in junior high.
I always told her I could whip her ... on the court, but of course I was only dreaming. Carolyn brought out the best in me, and I brought out the worst in her. I will miss my dear friend, and will cherish my memories of her.

Joyce & B. J. Binford

December 31, 2008

Dear family, Carolyn was a good friend of our family and a basketball team mate to the three Binford sisters from Sugar Land, Texas. I cannot recall seeing her without a smile on her face or without an upbeat attitude. She was a joy to be near and could do amazing things with a basketball. Although we did no see her often, she is remembered fondly and will be missed by our family.

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