Joyce Miller Obituary
It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Joyce E. Miller, who passed away peacefully at her home in Castorland on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at the age of 68. Formerly a resident of Deer River, Joyce will be remembered for her dedicated service and her active involvement in her community and church.
Born on February 17, 1957, in Lowville, NY, to the late Alfred L. and Edna May (Dekin) Miller, Joyce was a 1975 graduate of Carthage Central School. She led a fulfilling career, retiring in 1998 as a Supply Technician for the Department of the Army at Fort Drum. Her professional life also included time with Dr. Silsbee, the NYS Department of Transportation, the Department of Education’s Rehabilitation Office, and Dry Hill Prison.
Joyce was a devoted member of the First Congregational Church of Deer River and served in several meaningful roles, including Past Director for the village of ecumenical ministries and youth director for the United Church of Christ. She was also a member of the Multiple Sclerosis Association, she was also a pastor at Castorland Baptist Church, and she generously volunteered and ran the VEM food pantry in Carthage. Joyce was extremely proud of working at the Olympics in 1980.
She is survived by her siblings, Mary (David) Jones of Deer River, Alfreda (Douglas) McLane of Deer River, along with her sisters-in-laws, Nancy Miller, Watertown and Tammy Miller of Carthage, as well as many special nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents and her brothers, Ervin L. Miller, and Lyle E. Miller.
Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the Bezanilla-McGraw Funeral Home, located at 518 State Street, Carthage, NY 13619. A Funeral Service will follow immediately at 2:00 PM. Burial will take place in the spring at the Swinburne Cemetery in Deer River.
In place of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the 1st Congregational Church of Deer River, in care of Mary Jones, P.O. Box 8, Deer River, NY.
Arrangements are in the care of the Bezanilla-McGraw Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.bezanillafh.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
518 State Street, Carthage, NY 13619
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