Blanche Bettie Miller

Blanche Bettie Miller (B.B. Miller), age 72, passed away peacefully in her home in Athens, Georgia on December 27, 2016. She was cradled in the arms of her loving husband and held tight in her daughter's embrace when the afternoon rainbows appeared to guide her angelic spirit to heaven.

Born on September 22, 1944 in Rockville, Maryland, she was the daughter of the late John Lewis Miller and Blanche Washington Trout. She moved to Athens in the 1970s and earned her Master of Fine Arts from the University of Georgia in 1975. Bettie dedicated her life to the creation and celebration of beauty through her artwork and teaching, while cherishing her family, reinvigorating her community, and inspiring the world.

Survivors include her beloved husband of 30 years, Robert DeForest Thurston III; daughter, Maria Miller Thurston; son, Bobby Fox; and brother, Johnny Miller.

A celebration honoring her life will be held at The State Botanical Garden in Athens (Visitors Center) on Saturday, January 14 at 1 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in her name to The State Botanical Garden: http://botgarden.uga.edu/giveannual (please specify Bettie in tribute field).

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.