Obituary of Melva Lee Miller

Melva Lee Miller

December 28, 1942 – October 2, 2024

 

Melva Lee Miller, a loving mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully with her daughter by her side on October 2, 2024, at the age of 81, at her home in Pensacola, Florida, due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease.

 

Born on December 28, 1942, in El Reno, Oklahoma, to Verna and Jack Ridenour, Melva's early life took her on a journey shaped by her family’s post-war moves. After World War II, she relocated with her family to Beaumont, Texas.  It was in McArthur Park, in the SouthPark neighborhood of Beaumont, that she met the love of her life, Max Miller. The two were married for 58 wonderful years, until Max’s passing.

 

Melva was known for her boundless creativity and her passion for the arts. She founded and ran a successful Counted Cross-Stitch publishing company, inspiring countless crafters with her intricate designs. Long before it became popular on television, Melva was flipping houses, showcasing her talent for transforming spaces. In addition to her business ventures, she was a skilled watercolorist, often exhibiting her paintings at local art shows.

 

More than anything, Melva loved her family. Her children were a constant source of pride and conversation, but her grandchildren truly meant everything to her. She cherished every moment spent with them, and their joy was her greatest happiness.

 

Melva will be remembered for her strength, her love for life, and her remarkable ability to make everyone around her feel cared for and appreciated. Her laughter and wit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

 

She is survived by her son, Marc Miller, and daughter-in-law, Linda, of Macon; her daughter, Marci Symms, and son-in-law, Andrew, of Pensacola; and her grandchildren: James Sanders (Na Lee), Wesley Sanders (Courtney), William Sanders, Alec Miller (Sarah), Nancy Miller, Anslee Ferguson (Brayden), Preston Cannon, and Harrison Cannon. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren: Baylor and Ledger Pina, Hazel Miller, Penelope Sanders, and Peyton Miller. Melva was predeceased by her granddaughter Ashby Symms, daughter Mica French, and her grandson, Joshua Sanders.

 

A memorial service will be held at a future date and location.

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