Thomas Ray Miller

Thomas Ray Miller, age 80, of Newport, who was lovingly known to most as Ray, T.R. and to some as "Wormy" left this world Tuesday, August 21, 2007 to rest in the arms of his Lord and Savior. Ray fought a long battle of cancer that left him weak but never lonely or unloved. He was always surrounded by his wife and son and so many others who loved Ray so much. Ray and his soul-mate, the love of his life, Pauline celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary, July 4, 2007. They had a wonderful 50th anniversary party at West End Baptist Church with many friends and family in attendance. Ray owned and operated T. R. Miller and son Tile Company for more than 30 yrs. He and his son, Gary traveled from the Atlantic Coast to the Pacific Coast, from the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico installing ceramic tile in many businesses, beautiful homes and buildings. Until his retirement Miller and son was considered the best because of his demand of perfection, artistic ability, and work ethics. When he retired, he was missed by many contractors and home builders. Ray was a proud veteran of the United States Armed Forces. He was stationed in Berlin, Germany, where he served as a Military Police Officer guarding German Prisoners of War. He was honorably discharged in November of 1946. He was a faithful member of West End Baptist Church, where he served as an usher always greeting members and visitors with a big smile on his face. Ray was preceded in death by his parents, James Asbury and Adelaide Miller; brothers, James Miller, Jr., Elmer Lee Miller, Oscar Miller and Garnie Miller, Sr.; sisters, Delia Miller Clevenger, Ola Lewis, Clydia Bea Lewis, Janella Miller Knight, and Ida Miller Rhinehart. He is survived by his wife, Pauline Webb Miller; son and daughter-in-law, Gary Ray amd Mary Lynne Miller; granddaughter, Jamie Lynn Miller; special nieces, Bonnie Masoner, Laraine K. Hance, Elaine Wester; great niece, Karen H. Butler; special friend Linda Owens; several nieces, nephews and other family and friends. Funeral services will be held 8:00 pm Thursday, August 23, 2007 at West End Baptist Church, with Rev. Tom Mooty and Rev. Scott Gorrell officiating. Graveside services will be held 10:00 am, Friday, August 24, 2007 in Union Cemetery, with military honors. The family will receive friends from 6-8 pm Thursday prior to the funeral services at West End Baptist Church. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Smoky Mountain Home Health and Hospice for the loving care and support shown during his illness.

Thomas Ray Miller

December 18, 1926 - August 21, 2007