Virginia Dare Miller

Virginia Miller, born Virginia Dare Martin, passed away peacefully at the age of 101. Born in Wilkes County, North Carolina, she was the beloved daughter of Lula Alexander Martin and Henry Martin. Virginia had many siblings, but grew up closest to Elizabeth, Stella, and Earl. Her childhood was filled with imagination, music, and the loving attention of her family.

Virginia attended Lincoln Heights School in Wilkesboro, where she developed the grace and charm that would define her life. In high school, she met Fred Cassard Miller, Jr. Their romance blossomed through letters and visits, eventually leading to their marriage in Baltimore. Their union lasted 52 years, marked by deep devotion and shared adventures.

Virginia and Fred lived together in Portland, Maine, while he was stationed in the Navy. She always considered Portland her favorite place to live. When Fred was called back to active duty, Virginia returned to her family in Wilkesboro, where their daughter Christina Dare Miller (Gentry) was born. Later, the family moved back to Portland, and their second child Fred C. Miller III was born. In 1951, the Navy transferred them to Philadelphia, where they helped desegregate Bartram Village. While living in Philadelphia, Virginia formed lasting friendships with neighbors such as Anne Isley and Jodie Bryant. She also became godmother to Anne’s daughter, Lois, whom she treated like one of her very own.

After returning to North Carolina to support her mother-in-law, Virginia and Fred built a home that became the heart of countless family gatherings. Her care for others was unwavering, and her witty, direct spirit that made everyone feel truly seen and loved. Virginia was a dedicated mother to Christina and Fred, and a nurturing presence to family and friends. She welcomed her niece Carolyn into her home in Philadelphia, and later, her granddaughter Badia in Fleetwood. No matter where Virginia lived, she created havens filled with music, laughter, and love. She worked for a short time at Appalachian State University and was active in her church, building close bonds with friends and family.

In her later years, Virginia enjoyed scripture, puzzles, word games, and her favorite soap opera, “The Young and the Restless,” especially the character Victor Newman. Her life was a testament to resilience, generosity, and enduring love. 

Virginia is survived by her daughter Christina Gentry (Raymond), her son Fred C. Miller III (Ruth McCall), nine grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. She was preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband Fred, her siblings, and her beloved granddaughter Badia.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 1, 2025 at 1:00 pm at Ashelawn Memorial Chapel by Rev. Terry Hunt and Speaker John Roberts. Burial will follow in the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.

Funeral services will be livestreamed through our facebook page (facebook.com/appalachianlegacyfuneralservices)

The family will receive friends from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm, one hour prior to the funeral service.

Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to the Ashe County Rescue Squad, PO Box 639, West Jefferson, NC 28694.

She will always be remembered always for the love she gave, the strength she carried, and the welcoming home she created for so many. Her presence will be deeply missed and forever cherished.