Larry Blain Miller

Mr. Larry Blain Miller, age 75 of Wilkesboro went home to be with his Lord on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at SECU Hospice Center in Yadkinville.  He was surrounded by his family.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM Friday at Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home.   Funeral services will be at 12:00 PM Saturday, November 16, 2024, at Reins-Sturdivant Chapel with Rev. Robert Duncan and Rev. Christopher Clark officiating.  Burial will be at Scenic Memorial Gardens.  Pallbearers are:  Shannon Shepherd, Jody Miller, Chad Miller, Sarah Childress, James Childress, Tony Welborn and alternate Shane Shepherd.

He was born on February 24, 1949, in Ashe County to John Louie and Gladys Shepherd Miller.

Larry retired after 38 years of working in construction/maintenance at Holly Farms/Tyson. To his work family, he was known as "Ace" and was recognized for his ability to take life one day at a time. He built many lasting friendships during his employment and often spoke fondly of his work family. Larry had a strong work ethic, and his motto was to pay attention to detail, "measure twice, cut once," do it right the first time, take pride in your work, work hard, live right, and play hard. 

Early in his career, Larry traveled across the United States, collecting many stories to share about his experiences. He was often called upon by his employer to design and build machinery. This involved visiting various worksites to view existing machinery, which he then redesigned for use in manufacturing plants. Additionally, Larry taught plant personnel how to operate the machines he built. 

A skilled craftsman, Larry created furniture and various other items from raw wood and metal. He had expertise in welding, motor work, and could fix nearly anything. Larry enjoyed woodworking and metalworking, often making items for others. He also taught his family and others a wide range of handyman skills, including plumbing, carpentry, masonry, electrical work, and painting. 

Beyond his craftwork, Larry was actively involved in Sunday and Bible school activities, particularly excelling with children. He enjoyed helping in the church nursery and had a remarkable ability to calm crying or upset children. Larry loved to sit on the floor and play games, such as “pee-pie,” with the younger kids. He was often seen as a father or grandfather figure to everyone who knew him. A man of faith, Larry witnessed the word of God to others and instilled important values in his daughters, teaching them that one's word is invaluable, and to always tell the truth and do what is right. 

Larry will always be remembered as a principled man who led by example. He was the family rock and often referred to as a guardian angel, as he frequently looked after others. When help was needed, he was the first to step up and assist. Larry understood early on that being faithful, honest, fair-minded, respectful, and compassionate was essential. He had a strong spirit and never backed down from obstacles. One of his favorite sayings was, "Can't never could," and he lived his life by this philosophy. Larry never met a stranger; he could often be heard greeting others with, "Don't I know you from somewhere?" He genuinely cared for his family, friends, and neighbors, and enjoyed spending time on the porch with his loved ones. He also loved gardening and sharing the fruit of his raw earth labor with others. He enjoyed fishing and watching NASCAR races on TV. He especially enjoyed family fun times together. Larry truly was the life of the party. 

He fought an incredibly courageous battle against Neuropathy and ALS and never understood the meaning of giving up. Rest in peace, "Muffin Man."

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Geraldine Combs and Frances Styron; and two brothers, Frank Shepherd and Johnny Miller.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth Shepard Miller of the home; two daughters, Donna Harless and husband Thomas of North Wilkesboro and Jamie Wyatt and husband Stephen of North Wilkesboro; three grandchildren, Aaron Harless, Kaylee Hamilton and husband Ryan, and Camden Wyatt; two great grandchildren, Elowyn Hamilton and Baby Hamilton; two sisters, Mary Kay Miller and Barbara Burchette; one brother, Ronnie Miller and wife Jan; two sisters-in-law, Joyce Shepherd and Linda Miller.  He is survived by many nieces and nephews that he loved dearly.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Robert Duncan Ministries, 746 Town N Country Drive, Wilkesboro, NC 28697.

The family would like to thank CenterWell Home Health, Mountain Valley Hospice, Wilkes EMS, SECU Hospice Center in Yadkinville, Dr. Cichon, Dr. Albright, Oakwoods Baptist Church and Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be made to www.reinssturdivant.com.