Terri Lee Miller

Late on the evening of Sunday, February 05, 2017, surrounded by her family, Terri Lee McKinney Miller, peacefully went home to be with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ as her faith became sight.

She was the oldest of three children born to Arthur and Allene McKinney, followed by brothers, Jeff of High Point and Mark of Marion.  Married to Roger Miller, they have one daughter, Jessica Mills, son-in-law, Matt (son of Buddy and Cindy Mills) and young grandson, Callen, who was the absolute joy of her life.  Terri and Roger made their home in Marion, North Carolina and were members of Zion Hill Baptist Church, where she was a devoted member of their choir and dear friend to many.

She held different jobs over the years, but it was within the last nine years that she found her true niche when she became part of the West Marion Elementary family.  Her title of “Miss Terri” would become synonymous with her giving heart and compassionate spirit.  She loved her job, helping children experience those “light bulb moments” was what made her day rewarding, but it was her efforts that went far beyond the classroom that left the biggest impact. From buying coats of all sizes and styles during the off-season to collecting food for families during school breaks, she not only recognized a need, but put wheels into motion to meet the need.

In the recent months, Terri and her family had valiantly fought a battle with a rare cancer.  It was with the help of her husband, daughter, son-in-law, and sisters-in-law (Melissa McKinney of Marion and Myrtle Pennington of Morganton, North Carolina); and dear friend (Melanie Hamilton of Marion), that she was able to continue her fight until the Lord called her home.  She was a bright star that shone vibrantly amongst us for far too short a time, but her memory will live on in the lives and hearts of the many who loved her.

The family will have a private graveside service at Zion Hill Baptist Church Cemetery.

A celebration to honor Miss Terri’s life will be held on Saturday, February 11, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at Zion Hill Baptist Church with Dr. Tom Walker officiating.  The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m., prior to the service, at the church.

Flowers are acceptable and appreciated. Those wishing to make a memorial donation in Mrs. Miller’s memory are asked to consider, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105 (www.stjude.org) and/or The Gideon’s International, P.O. Box 1788, Marion, North Carolina (www.gideons.org).