Eloise Olevia Miller

Read at graveside May 21, 2021

We find ourselves gathered at this place and at this time to remember, honor and express appreciation for the life of my mother, ELOISE SMITH MILLER, widow of the late Charles E. Miller and daughter of Benjamin and Laura Smith.

Mom, your tenure amongst us was long and frequently difficult. 92 years and 9 days to be exact. You saw so very many changes during those years. But even so, your character remained constant. We cherish the opportunity to have observed that.

Now your race is over. No longer do you wrestle with uncooperative and painful knees, the effects of stroke, lockdowns or even the annoyances of pureed spinach and thickened water -- the consistency of pudding -- to try to quench your thirst! (Yes, I saw more than you thought I did and I ached for you.) But we now rejoice with you! And because of your example, we are given just a little more courage to continue our races with confidence in Almighty God.

We acknowledge that your spirit has already been set free from constraints of matter, time and space. It is now time for us to commit to the ground that which you left behind. We do so reluctantly, with a tinge of grief for our loss, but with joy for the legacy you left and which we cherish.

The clods of earth that will soon fall over your resting place are powerless to quench your influence and memory. I will always love you!

Rest in peace.