St. Francis of Assisi once stated, "a single sunbeam is enough to drive away many shadows."  The town of Independence joins the family of Jeffrey Zane Miller in mourning the loss of one of it most beloved citizens on October 16, 2022, in Baptist Hospital in Winston-Salem, NC.  Jeff was for most of his 60 years, a sunbeam to the town and the surrounding communities. Born in Jefferson, NC on May 12, 1962, to James Bradley and Notra Henderson Miller, Jeff grew up in the town of Independence often visiting his Grandmother, Lilly Miller of Independence and his great grandparents, Vester and Grace Reedy in the Grassy Creek Community of Mouth of Wilson.

He was a sunbeam throughout the town and from a very young age was known by every shop owner in town.  During his high school career, he was active in the band and many school activities, especially the 4-H club. Following graduation in 1980, he continued his education earning an AS Degree in Nursing.  He later completed his BS Degree in nursing.  He was a much-loved nurse in all the hospitals that were fortunate enough to have him.  He served in Twin County Hospital in Galax, VA, Alleghany Memorial in Sparta, NC, Baptist Hospital in Winston-Salem, NC, Hugh Chatham Hospital in Elkin, NC, and Forsyth Medical Center in Winston-Salem, NC.  He was also a highly respected Nursing Instructor at Wytheville and Surry Community Colleges.  He was highly regarded for his medical knowledge and was often summoned to the bedside of ailing friends and neighbors. He most recently served at the Hilltop Nursing Home in Independence.  He was often summoned as a private nurse. Wherever his career took him, Jeff never lost touch with his hometown of Independence.  His affinity for the town brought him home where he served as the School Nurse at Independence Elementary.  He extended his many talents to the town in a successful campaign for Town Council in 2014.  During this tenure, he was disappointed with the lack of interest in the beautification of the town and organized and chaired the Town Beautification Project. His interest, knowledge and talents of flowers and gardening can be seen today across the town. He was also involved in the 1908 Courthouse Foundation and many other civic activities.    In recent years, he organized and founded the "Make Grayson Glow" campaign. His love of holiday decorations was extended to the town and through his leadership and fundraising abilities, the town of Independence proudly glows with seasonal and holiday decorations.  In honor of his unprecedented dedication to this campaign, the Town of Independence erected the town Christmas Tree in his honor within hours of his death.  He fought his declining health to the end.  At the time of his death, he was involved in a campaign for Town Mayor.  He was knowledgeable in period glassware and antiques and was an avid collector of both.  He adored spending time with his much-loved nephew, Cooper.  In the summer months while school was out, the two were inseparable.  Jeff was always willing to help anybody in need.  His love for all animals was influenced by his interest and passion for St. Francis.  When Jeff's brother-in-law, killed a bear, Jeff refused to share in the excitement as his sympathies lay totally with the bear.  The two reconciled in time!  There are no words to describe how bright the sunbeam glowed that was Jeff Miller!  His presence dissolved shadows.  The Town of Independence is more beautiful, and the holidays are brighter because he passed this way.

He is survived by his loving mother, Notra Miller of Independence, his much-loved baby sister, Tiffany and Matthew Adams of Independence, his most favorite nephew, Cooper Adams of Independence, and a special Aunt, Betty Jo Cox of Crumpler, NC, a host of cousins and friends also survive.

A service of Remembrance will be conducted on October 4, 2023 at 4:30 PM at the St. Francis of Rome Catholic Church in Sparta, NC.

While flowers are appreciated, the family suggest that memorial contributions be made to Making Grayson Glow PO BOX 99 Independence, Virginia 24348 or to the Humane Society of the donor's choice.

Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home in Independence, VA is serving the Miller family.