Mary Ruth Miller

Mary Ruth Miller of Buford, GA celebrated Resurrection Sunday with her Lord Jesus Christ, as she left this earthly life and began a glorious, new life “at home with the Lord” (1 Corinthians 5:8).  

Never without a smile, Mary Ruth was the embodiment of agape — God’s self-giving love. She often spoke the words “I love you,” but even more often expressed love through her actions and her servant nature. Always joyful, she brimmed with love and pride for her family — celebrating every milestone, making a favorite cake for every birthday, and ensuring that we had what we needed to live life to the fullest. She passed on a legacy of joy, hard work, helping others, perseverance, respect, commitment, doing your best, fulfilling your purpose in life, and honoring God. 

Mary Ruth retired after teaching at Woodward Academy for over 30 years. Throughout her lifetime she ministered to others through her church in many volunteer positions: children’s teacher, church librarian, program chairperson for Abundant Life, president of the Silvertones choir, Meals on Wheels volunteer, and much more. She also volunteered in the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. She enjoyed traveling, gardening, sewing, reading, watching football and basketball (particularly when the University of Tennessee was playing), and especially spending time with family and friends.  

Mary Ruth is lovingly remembered by her husband Jerry Miller of Buford, GA; son Greg (Nancy) Miller of Hoschton, GA; daughter Lori (Mike) Farrell of Buford, GA; sister Shirley Conley of Flowery Branch, GA; nephew Todd (Kim) Conley of Flowery Branch, GA; granddaughters Kristen (Jonathan) Henriques of Alpharetta, GA; Kacey Lanier of Chattanooga, TN; Allison (Zach) Edwards of Buford, GA; Chelsea (Alex) Workman of Tallahassee, FL; Carson (Patrick) Fay of Kathleen, GA; grandson Josh Miller of Winder, GA; and great nephew Christopher Conley of Alpharetta, GA. Mary Ruth will also be forever remembered by her great grandchildren, extended family, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her daughter Paige Lanier and parents Ethel and Jack Miller.  

A celebration of Mary Ruth’s life will be held at 1:00pm (EDT) on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 in the Chapel of Flanigan Funeral Home, 4400 South Lee St., Buford, GA 30518, with Rev. Ron West of Tryon, N.C. officiating. Visitation will be from 11:00am–12:30pm prior to the service. A brief graveside service will follow at Broadlawn Memorial Gardens, 5979 New Bethany Rd., Buford, GA 30518.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Mary Ruth’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

“Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: ‘Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.’ Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised” (Proverbs 31:28-30).

To express condolences, please sign our online guest book at www.flaniganfuneralhome.com.  Arrangements By: Junior E. Flanigan of Flanigan Funeral Home and Crematory, Buford, GA (770) 932-1133.