Phyllis Ann Miller

Phyllis Ann Miller of Dallas walked into the merciful arms of her Lord in the early evening of November 21st, 2018 after a long and difficult battle with Alzheimer’s. She was preceded in death by her parents, younger brother and nephew. She was deeply loved by her husband, Carl, daughters Carla (Jon) and Leigh Ann (Michael). She took great joy in her grandchildren: Shelby, Kennedy, Mika, Jake and Andrew. She leaves behind her dear sisters Barbara (Mark) and Wanda (Danny) and a host of nieces, nephews and extended family.

While at Southeastern Bible College to achieve a teaching degree, she met and later married her sweetheart of more than 50 years, Carl. After marrying in 1967, they settled in to life in Alabama. Early in their marriage, Carl was drafted into the Vietnam War. With her tiny first child in arms, she packed up and moved back to Dallas to be closer to family while he was away. Upon his return, Dallas became home.

Throughout most of her teaching career, she tirelessly worked as a special needs educator with severely disabled children until her retirement in 2009. The children in her care would have had no other place to go in the public school system.

In addition to her demanding career, she co-managed the Carl’s mechanic shop. On any given day, she could be heard telling one of us about her need to “go get parts for Carl” and off she went.

She loved to sew, play the piano, make delightful treats during the holidays and travel. Her distinctive laugh could be heard from anywhere. She was a lifelong member of Prairie Creek Baptist Church where she served in various capacities over the many years of membership.

Phyllis was as strong of a woman as they come. Lovingly referred to as “Sarge”, it was always clear that if you were told to do something you did it…or else…and nobody wanted “or else”. She was compassionate, loving, kind and firm. She expected her children, nieces and nephews to act as they had been raised and was quick to offer correction when warranted.

Famous for offering sage advice, many of us will always remember one-line zingers such as “God don’t like ugly” or “Don’t put God in your pocket”…each of these simple sentences reminding the listener to act according to our faith and keep God at the forefront of our lives. She always pointed those around her to Christ.

In her last months, she was cared for by family friend, Maria Cruz, alongside her husband and daughters. We owe a debt of gratitude to: Pat Hahn of Silverado Hospice, Diane of Cerna Healthcare and a true angel, Natalie Milas, of Notice Care Homes. She and her staff gently tended to Phyllis in the final weeks with dignity and grace.

Phyllis Miller was a modern-day warrior with more courage, strength, guts, resourcefulness and grace than any character in print or the movies. Wonder Woman could have taken lessons from her any day. She leaves behind a legacy of staunch faith in Jesus Christ, devotion to family, rare work ethic and a heart full of love.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Foundation or a hospice care organization in your area.

Please leave condolences for the family at www.roselawn-funerals.com.