Rutherford Regional Health System

   Margaret Miller has turned in the pink jacket that’s been a part of her wardrobe for the past 23 years.  

   Miller, 92, who retired from teaching in 1981 after 30 years, has retired a second time – this time as a volunteer for Rutherford Regional Health System. 

   “I didn’t like to be at home by myself much,” Miller said of her decision to volunteer after her retirement. “I decided Rutherford Hospital would have to put up with me for a while. I think I made the right choice in choosing the hospital.” 

   During her years of volunteering with RRHS, Miller served in the ICU and surgery waiting areas as well as in the gift shop. Over the years she’s met new people and has also run into the familiar faces of her former students. 

   “I don’t believe I’ve ever been up here that I’ve not seen someone who’s come by and said ‘Hey, Mrs. Miller!’”

   In addition to volunteering more than 6,000 hours, Miller is a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and a former member of the Rutherfordton Garden Club. She also enjoys playing bridge and reading. 

   Ginger Dancy, Rutherford Regional’s director of community relations and volunteers, described Miller as “a true inspiration.” 

   “Margaret has been an important part of the volunteer force at the hospital since I came in 1990,” Dancy said. “She has ably served as Auxiliary president and as ICU Waiting chair in the past. She most recently helped ‘man’ the gift shop on Saturdays, which is one of the hardest days to staff.

   “To say that Margaret is a delight to be around is an understatement. She is always bubbly and her sense of humor is intact no matter how she feels.” 

   Miller said she’ll miss volunteering because it has allowed her to help others over the years. 

   “I believe everyone should do something to help their community,” she said. 

   For information visit MyRutherfordRegional.com/Volunteer.