Wednesday, January 21, 2026 11:20 am

Ralph Gene Miller Sr., age 99, of Union Mills, NC, went home to be with his Lord January 16, 2026.

Gene was born to the late Lawrence Edward Miller and Blanche Gantt Miller. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife and lifelong fishing partner, Evelyn Smith Miller; his daughter, Patricia Phipps; his sister, Beth Miller Edwards; and his brother, William "Bud" Miller.

Gene was a proud United States Navy veteran and a retired firefighter, serving his community with dedication and honor.

Those left to cherish his memory include his brothers, Joe and John Miller; his children, Linda Roddy (David) and Gene Miller Jr.; his seven grandchildren, Joe Phipps Jr., Eric Miller (Carolyn), James Phipps (Molly), Patrick Miller, Justin Phipps (Stephanie), Jared Roddy (Brandi), and Mark Roddy (Lindsay); along with seven great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Services will be held at 11am Friday, January 23 at Camp Creek Baptist Church, 1801 Camp Creek Rd., Union Mills, NC 28167, with Rev. Darold Crawford officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. An informal visitation will be held in the fellowship hall following the burial.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Hospice of Carolina Foothills, PO Box 336 Forest City, NC 28043.

Online condolences may be made at www.crowemortuary.com.