Birth Date: 08/20/1948
Deceased Date: 02/01/2024
Judy Coley Miller, 75, of Smithfield passed away Thursday, February 1, 2024 at SECU Hospice House following a brief illness. Judy was born in Wilson County on August 20, 1948, daughter of Sidney and Vira Coley. She was preceded in death by both her parents and her husband, Dr. Grover C. Miller.
Surviving are her brother, Gerald W. Coley and wife Loraine, and her sister, Debbie C. Stanley and companion Richie Carey. She is also survived by her bonus children Cindy Leslie and husband Bill; Mark Miller and wife, Moni; Melissa Jensen and husband Niels; Matthew Miller and wife Susan; and seven grandchildren: Lauren Wolf (Luke), Will Leslie (Jessica), Nicole Howell (Ryne), Kyra Miller, Tyler Miller, Tenille Torres (Nelson), Devon Jensen; and 11 great grandchildren.
Judy worked at NC State University and the NC State Veterinary School of Medicine for many years. Upon moving to Smithfield, she worked at Johnston Community College in the Foundation Office until retirement. Judy served on the Miss North Carolina Pageant Organization’s Board of Directors and Executive Committee. She also served as Business Manager and a Miss North Carolina traveling companion to the Miss America Pageant.
She was a member at First Presbyterian Church in Smithfield where she served as a deacon, an elder, and on various committees.
She was lovingly known by her family and friends as “Juju.” Judy was adored by her cousins, nieces, and nephews. She will be remembered for her giving and generous heart. Judy was a classy lady that always carried herself with confidence and grace. Her contagious laugh and smile will be missed as she always “chose joy.”
The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. until 12 p.m. on Tuesday, February 6, 2024 at First Presbyterian Church in Smithfield followed by a memorial service at 12 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the SECU Hospice House, First Presbyterian Church of Smithfield, or the Grover C. Miller Zoology Scholarship Endowment at NC State University (give.ncsu.edu).
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.parrishfh.com.
