Mary Wells Milam

MILAM, MARY WELLS, a native of Miami, died peacefully at her home at the age of 91 on December 15, 2013. Her father Marcus A. Milam moved his family into this home in1922 and Mary was born there two weeks later and lived in that house for the rest of her life. The Milams were leaders in every aspect of the city of Miami from their arrival in 1900 until the present. Milam Dairy, Railey-Milam Hardware and Biscayne Hardware served the city for decades.The YMCA, Biscayne Bank, church boards, the University of Miami, and cultural organizations all benefitted from their leadership and support. The M.A. Milam Elementary School, now known as M.A. Milam K-8 Center, was named for her father. "Aunt Mary", as she was fondly known to three generations of Milam nieces and nephews, was not only a loving, engaged aunt, but also an astute business woman, active volunteer, and an innovative thinker. Mary graduated from the University of Miami. While a student she tutored WWII prospective pilots in math to help qualify them for the math test. She was an advisor to the Chi Omega Sorority at the U of M, where she had been a member. Her expert leadership impressed the national Chi Omega organization and she became a National Chapter Visitor, making her available to analyze and solve problems at many chapters. She served the U of M Alumni Association as an active member and then as President of the Board. When the Alumni Building was opened four years ago, her name was placed on the wall of Distinguished Alumni. Her interest in community involvement was not in Miami alone. She served as the National President of Traveler's Aid Society. In 1970, her volunteer efforts in the social services earned her the Colgate Award. Mary also served her family for many years as President of the board of the Railey-Milam Corporation holding company, Ramico, until all of the property was disposed of and the company closed. Her nieces and nephews for three generations were enriched by her love for them, her honor of her country, her love of travel, and her spirit of fun and adventure. She taught life lessons, problem solving and strict social etiquette. "It is not what you know, but how you use that information that counts." Mary was preceded in death by her parents Omega Wigginton Milam and Marcus Alexander Milam; her siblings: Ellen Omega Milam, Marcus Alexander Milam, Jr., Alpha Railey Milam Skaggs; and her niece Lydia Skaggs Clark. She is survived by her wonderful caregivers: Pearl Cassells, Lola R. Bryan, Doreen A. Turner Sterling, and Charmaine A. Vaughn-Jones. They were caring and loving and were with Mary when she went to her eternal home. Mary also is survived by her nieces: Marcia M. Hencinski (Edward), Beverly M. Singleton (Earl), Mary Pat Rogers (Danny); her nephews Glen O. Skaggs, Jr (Joan) and Marcus A. Milam III; 15 great and 16 great-great nieces and nephews. Family and friends will gather for a "Celebration of Life" on February 16, 2014, 2:30 pm at VAN ORSDEL CORAL GABLES CHAPEL, 4600 S.W. 8th St. Coral Gables, FL 33134, phone 305-446-4412. Mary was interred in Woodlawn Park Cemetery on December 18, 2013. In lieu of flowers send contributions in her memory to Hospice Care of South Florida, 7270 NW 12th Street, Miami, FL 33126, phone 786-465-3293 or the donor's favorite charity.