Herbert McNeil Miller
June 29, 1913 ~ February 21, 2011
Resided in:
Asheville, NC
Asheville Butterfly Trail
HERBERT McNEIL MILLER
ASHEVILLE – Herbert McNeil Miller left this mortal world on February 21, 2011. Born 6/29/13 in Buena Vista, VA, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 68 years, Julia Higgins Miller in 2002, his parents John N and Florence Slough Miller, and all eight of his siblings.
He is survived by three children: Marilyn Blanton of Dothan, Alabama, Lenora Parker of Yorktown, VA, and Ronald (Mary-Ellen) Miller of Asheville, NC, with whom he resided since 2004. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great grandchildren.
He resided for several years in Blackstone, VA, where he was employed by Bernstein Mfg Co and The Mutual Insurance Co. In 1938 he moved to Newport News, VA where he was employed by Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company, from which he retired 38 years later. He helped build the record-holding luxury liners SS America and SS United States, and many Navy ships including the USS Yorktown, now permanently docked at Patriot's Point, SC. He also helped build the USS Nimitz, a still active aircraft carrier, on which he had a great-grandson serve a tour of duty, and hydro-electric turbines for Hoover Dam.
A member of Trinity United Methodist Churches in both Newport News and Asheville, he was a member of the Adult Bible Class, past Chairman of the Administrative Board and Finance Committee, and past President of the Men's Fellowship.
He was also a past member and Chancellor Commander of Lodge 72 of The Knights of Pythias and the Grand Lodge of the State of Virginia, and also served as a Boy Scout Troop Scoutmaster.
Local visitation will be at Groce Funeral Home on Patton Avenue on Wednesday, February 23, 2011, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. He will be interred next week in Newport News, VA, with arrangements there being handled by Peninsula Funeral Home on Warwick Boulevard.
Memorials may be made to: the American Heart Association, Mid Atlantic Affiliate, PO Box 5216, Glen Allen, VA 23058; Trinity UMC Asheville and Newport News, VA; or to a charity of one's choice.
Ron and family, I am sorry to hear of the loss of your Father. My prayers are with you. Celebrate a life well lived, and many accomplishments. Your father was a part of history.
May God bless and keep you in his loving arms.
Ron and Mary-Ellen,
We send our sincerest condolences to you and your family. Our heart goes out to you in this difficult time. May you find comfort and strength in the many memories of your dad.
I have known and respected Herb Miller for many years. He and his wife Julia were two great people who always had time and a smile for me at all times of my life. I treasure memories of both Herb and Julia, and am comforted in knowing that they are together again. My condolences and best wishes to the family.
Ron & Mary-Ellen, thanks be to God for supporting you in allowing you to provide loving care of your Dad from 2004 to present. He is now in God’s care so you can let go and take care of one another.
Grief can be so hard, but your special memories will help you to cope. As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. May God bless you and your families in this time of sorrow.
Ron & Mary Ellen, How quick these 6-7 years have flown by since you and Herb came to Trinity. Herb was such a kind gentleman. We have especially enjoyed the many Sunday lunches together and will miss having Herb at the table. Your care for Herb will continue to bring comfort and blessing as the years go by.
Ron and MaryEllen, I love you both and am thinking of you and the family. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Ron and Mary Ellen, I wish so much that I could be near and just give you both big, long hugs. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Losing a loved one is never easy but memories are so wonderful. I know you have so many that will brings smiles through the tears. I love you both. Just know that we are here for you in any way that we can help from afar.
Love always, Bill and Susan