Barbara A. (Harris) Miller, 81
Barbara Ann (Harris) Miller, 81, of Fleming Island, Florida, passed away Sunday, September 28, 2025. Born Barbara Ann Harris on October 22, 1943, in Athens, Georgia to Virginia Lucille (Case) Harris and Gilbert William Harris, she lived a life of service, leadership and encouragement. Her commitment to excellence was evident from an early age. In high school (1963 graduate of Bordentown High School, Bordentown, New Jersey), she was active in sports and student government, received a citizenship award, was selected for Girls’ State, served as a class officer for four years, and was a proud member of the National Honor Society. In college (1965 graduate of Montclair State College (University), Upper Montclair, New Jersey), she continued her leadership as a Dean’s List student, class officer for four years, and member of Mu Sigma Sorority. Barbara also earned her master’s degree in 1976 from Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts.
She dedicated her life to teaching and inspiring others, beginning her career in education and teaching for thirteen years in the public school systems of Montclair, New Jersey; North Reading, Massachusetts; and Stamford, Connecticut. After her successful teaching career, Barbara became a Realtor with John Garrison Real Estate in Stamford, Connecticut, before moving to Florida, where she co-owned Gretchen’s Hallmark Card and Gift Shops in the greater Jacksonville area for twenty-seven years, retiring on February 21, 2008.
Barbara was tirelessly dedicated to her community which is evidenced by her service, including serving on the board of directors for Quigley House, acting as president of the Blanding Business Council with the Clay County Chamber of Commerce, and serving as a Chamber of Commerce Ambassador for ten years, welcoming new businesses to the area.
Faith was of utmost importance in Barbara’s life. As a child, she was active with the Methodist Youth Group. As an adult, she was a devoted member and leader at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, where she served on the vestry, as a lay eucharistic minister and reader, and as chair and docent for the Annual Tour and Tea. She led youth programs, participated in Bible studies, and contributed to numerous Christian formation retreats and mission trips. Her service extended to Christ’s Church Fleming Island and Grace Anglican Church, where she facilitated mission and grief support teams, served as a liaison to missionaries, and took part in Christian Healing Ministry and prayer teams. At River Christian Church, she continued her ministry through food distribution, baptism support, nativity presentations, visitations, and mentoring.
Barbara was an avid Jacksonville Jaguars football fan, loved exploring her faith, mentoring others, reading, traveling, enjoying nature, caring for animals, capturing memories through photography, and cherishing time spent with friends. She will be remembered as an encourager—someone who uplifted, inspired, and left a lasting impact on everyone she met.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Gilbert Harris and Virginia Case Harris; her brothers, William W. Harris and Charles E. Harris; as well as her sister, Darlene M. Klar. She is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Thomas O. Miller; her niece, Sarah K. Harris; two nephews, C. Matthew Harris and Stephen W. Harris; as well as many friends. Barbara was a beloved educator, community leader, and devoted friend. She will be greatly missed and forever remembered.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, October 18, 2025 ay 11am at River Christian Church, 5900 US-17, Fleming Island, FL 32003, with Pastor Nathan Freeman officiating. Interment will occur at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church Cemetery at a later date.
Flowers are welcome or if you choose to make a donation in Barbara’s memory, the family requests you consider the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, https://www.jacksonvillezoo.org/donate.
Arrangements are under the care of Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery, Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 2335 Sandridge Road, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043. Family and friends may share their condolences at: www.RHRFH.com 904-284-7720