Willodean Smith Miller, 98, passed away surrounded by love and compassion on Saturday, February 25, 2023. She was born at her home in Jay, FL on March 19, 1924 to parents, Wyatt and Maude Smith who passed away many years ago.
She was preceded in passing by her loving husband of 73 years, Weaver Field Miller, Jr. She was also preceded in death by her firstborn daughter, Sandra Ann Miller Barrett who passed at the age of 41. Willodean loved and cared for her daughter until her death after a long illness.
Willodean was the last of ten siblings to pass away; her siblings who preceded her in passing were: Audrey S. Campbell, Nellie S. May, Wilson G. Smith, Mozelle S. Roberts, Fred H. Smith, Wyatt L. Smith, Jr., Mary Smith Potter, BH Smith, Betty S. Carr, and infant sister, Annie Merle Smith.
Willodean grew up in Jay and graduated from Jay High School where he was a majorette and played on the girls’ basketball team. Her early years were spent in this area until her and her husband moved to Pennsylvania for a few years. She met several people while there who became lifelong friends. Once they moved back to Pensacola, FL, she joined Ferry Pass United Methodist Church and became a member of the United Methodist Women’s Group. Later she would move to Milton, FL and join Milton First United Methodist Church.
She also had a group of friends she called “The Sewing Club” who met at her home. She was an avid housekeeper, good cook, and seamstress and also enjoyed gardening.
Waterfront Missions was one of her favorite charities. She couldn’t sit still and was always up doing something. She passed this work ethic down to her children.
Survivors include: her children, Sherry M. Nelson (David) and Kay Miller Dawson (Steve); eight grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
Trahan Family Funeral Home of Milton is in charge of arrangements.
Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 28, 2023 at Jay Cemetery, 14408 Highway 89, Jay, FL with Rev. Gandy officiating.