"In the fall of 1958 I met Rhea Lou when we both lived on the same dormitory wing at Florida Southern. The summer of 1959 I attended her wedding in Converse, IN. I have always wished we could have kept in touch, but one's life goes in different directions. She was one of the fun gals on our wing, going for fresh doughnuts every Sunday evening. It was with great sadness that I read of her passing in the newspaper. All her loved ones have my greatest sympathy. Leah Leifer Indianaplis"
In loving memory of
Rhea L Miller
July 4, 1940 - June 25, 2017
Rhea Lou (Aukerman) Miller, 76, of Carmel, (formerly of Marion, IN) joyously entered the gates of Heaven, early Sunday morning June 25, 2017 after losing her up-hill battle with unfortunate chronic health issues , and weakened immune system that had been compromised, from a series of aggressive infections, and set-backs, plus repetitive trips to hospitals, but, still...Rhea never complained and she was always full of joy, bringing uplifting energy and a very unique sense of humor, to all who encountered her. With a driving desire to be actively ministering, where ever there was need, she was a true inspiration to everyone who crossed her path...doctors, nurses, and strangers alike. Rhea was born on the 4th of July, 1940 in Peru, Indiana, to the late Ronald and Eleanor (Trook) Aukerman. Rhea graduated from Converse High School in 1958. Thereafter, she attended Florida Southern College, in Lakeland FL. After marrying Donal Ben Miller, they moved to Marion, IN and started a family. Later in life, Rhea followed her lifelong dream and attended Rhema Bible College in Oklahoma and was ordained as a minister. Rhea was a member of St. Luke's United Methodist Church and was active as a Stephen's Minister. She assisted at the Recovery Center of Oakland, CA and was Associate Pastor at Amboy Friends Church and actively led the youth ministries programs.
Rhea's life was a tribute to her faith in God. Even though she had no use of her left arm due to polio at age 12, she still enjoyed tennis, snow skiing and sailing. She adored her grandchildren and loved spending time with them. Rhea was very artistic, she loved painting and photography. She never knew a stranger and was always up for an adventure and a good laugh!
She is survived by one son, Grant Miller, one daughter, Melanie (Chuck) Norman, five grandchildren, Charlie, Alexa, Mahrina, Ahlia, and Baylin; two sisters, Lana (Jonathan) Sprague and Karen (Don) Zimmerman; former husband, Don Miller, and former daughter-in-law, Kelly Stuart. She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Brett Miller; and one great-grandson, Daniel Brett.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 29, 2017 at St. Luke's United Methodist Church, 100 W. 86th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana from 12:30-3:00 PM followed by a service at 3:00 PM. Burial along with a short graveside service to follow at Park Lawn Cemetery, Amboy, Indiana.
Memorial contributions may be made to Stephen Ministry, c/o St. Luke's United Methodist Church, 100 W. 86th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260.
Leppert Mortuary entrusted with arrangements. To share a memory, please visit www.leppertmortuary.com.
Tributes
"I loved Rhea Miller! She was the sweetest, kindest, generous, thoughtful, most Christian person I have ever known. Plus she was so fun-loving! She has changed my life because I want to grow up and be more like her. Grant and Melanie, I appreciate you so much for all your kindnesses. I will not forget you and hope to keep in touch. God bless you and your whole lovely family!! Love, Lois Surber "
"Rhea was such a fun and wonderful friend and we will all miss her. You have my sympathy at this sad time. Donna Long"
"Rhea's sense of humor made her one of my most favorite mom's growing up. I remember so many fun times with my friend Melanie and her mom Rhea from lake visits to snow skiing in Colorado. The McClure family sends our deepest sympathy to the Millers and know that you are in the thoughts of many. Much Love, Kelly McClure "