Ellen Byrd Miller

Ellen Byrd Miller, age 69, of the Red Hill Community, went Home to be with her Lord on Tuesday, February 17th, 2026. A native of Yancey County, she was a daughter of the late Charles and Billie Peterson Byrd. In addition to her parents she was also preceded in death by her loving husband of 44 years, Henry Miller; a sister-in-law, Angie Byrd and brother-in-law, Charlie Franklin.

Ellen worked over twenty years in the Exceptional Children Department for Yancey County Public School system. She had a passion for children with special needs and treated them with love and care throughout her career. Outside of work, she enjoyed time spent with family and the great outdoors. Fond memories of Ellen taking her boys and grandkids camping will be cherished forever. After retirement she spent many hours working in her garden and singing hymns.

She leaves behind a lifetime of love with her sons: Aaron Miller (Erin) and Michael Miller (Ashley); grandchildren: Everett, Violet, Bruce and Eleanor; two brothers: Tony Byrd and Ricky Byrd (Myra); a sister, Lisa Franklin. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

A private service for family will be held.

The Miller family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Smoky Ridge Health and Rehab for the wonderful care they showed Ellen during her final days.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made in Ellen's memory to the Lewy Body Dementia Association at https://www.lbda.org/research/research-centers-of-excellence