Helen Marie “Peggie” Miller of Lancaster, PA died on January 26, 2016 just days shy of her 86th birthday. She was born in Bethlehem, PA on January 31, 1930 to parents Albert Lauber Jr. and Helen Naomi Wilson Lauber. Her older brother Lt. Col. Robert Wilson Lauber died in 1992. Her marriage to James Cobean Miller ended in divorce in 1981. Peggie is survived by her oldest son Robert Dean Miller, daughter-in-law Paige Fulton Miller, two granddaughters, and two great grandchildren, and by younger son David Ward Miller and daughter-in-law Karen Lyn Kahn Miller.
Peggie died comfortably and peacefully, assured of her future, after a brief but intense battle with double pneumonia. During her last days she was surrounded by her two sons and special friends. She was showered with love, prayers, hymns, and happy stories from her full life.
A graduate of UVM, Peggie was a gifted schoolteacher, a devoted mother, and always active in various church and civic organizations during her adult years in Pennington, NJ and Lancaster, PA. Among other activities, she was a mediator for Lancaster Mediation Center and on its board; Associate Member, Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers Chapter 116; Associate Member Christian Legal Society; Co-founder, Good News Together We Stand; board member of Pennsylvanians vs. Pornography; unofficial “secretary” of ICL (Lancaster Men’s Prayer Breakfast); active in church prayer-chains; President of the Church Women’s Fellowship; Regional Trustee for Mom’s House, Inc.; and chairman of the annual National Pornography Awareness Week (White Ribbon Against Pornography campaign); and active in a variety of Korean War veterans associations.
Peggie was an activist for her beliefs, which she championed through her church, frequent Letters to the Editor, and her daily outreach to media, police, and government officials and through her support of the Public Library. She was a woman of principles, who instilled strong values in her two sons and was always very proud of them and their wives. Most of all, Peggie will be remembered by most for her ever-present smile, her infectious laugh, her high-energy, her can-do spirit, and her deep faith convictions.
The memorial service will be held Saturday February 13, 2016 at 10AM at Highland Presbyterian Church (500 E Roseville Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601) followed by a reception. Both are open to the public. A private burial service will follow in the family plot in Carversville, PA. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to: Crossroads Wesleyan Church, 2323 Marietta Avenue, Lancaster PA 17603, noting on your check “Peggie Miller Honorary Fund.” To leave an online condolence for the family please visit: www.DeBordSnyder.com
Kimberly G Ibarra
February 6, 2016 at 8:09 pmOh what a very big hole is left by the departure of our dear and glorious girl, Peggie ( make sure that’s with an I-E!). My life will never be the same for the influence, love, laughter, sharp wit, and challenge to make a difference…giving gifts where we would never guess God would lead, in tithe, time, and talent. Big love and hugs to Bob and David, your wives and families. You are always in my thoughts and prayers.
Jeffrey S Keller
February 7, 2016 at 8:46 amDear Peggie,
It has been awhile since our eyes met each other’s in person, yet your smile is making me smile now as I fondly remember. Your smile is indeed infectious even from afar, in both time and distance. My first memory of meeting you, i also met your two boys, Cousin Bobby and David. At first I was afraid it would be like so many other family, tribal, gathering with kids. A sort of Sunday BYB (Be your best) Light; “Lord of the Flies” experience. It wasn’t. Thank you for raising two good sons. A life well lived by itself. Best to you all Bobby, David, family of relatives and friends. I will raise a glass at your 10 AM to join and solute her smiling star-ness on the 13th.
Peace and Love,
Jeffrey Steffen Keller
dick Mccue
February 7, 2016 at 9:54 amI am deeply saddened on reading about Peggie’s passing. I have know Peggie for over 50 years. I first came in contact with her when I was a Lancaster City Police Officer. She had great respect for law enforcement. I recall a time when she invited me to her home for coffee. I was sitting in the living room drinking a cup of coffee when I suddenly heard coming from my cup a strange noise. I kept drinking only to find out as I was getting to the bottom there was fake frog at the bottom making the noise. She had set me up. She laughed and laughed. She had a beautiful laugh. I had many breakfasts with her over the years at which time we shared conversations and photos Quite a lady. Respected by law enforcement everywhere. I will pray for the family. She without any doubt will deeply missed by me. It has been my honor to have been one of her friends. She left me with many, many great memories.
Bob & Ann-Marie Sweeney
February 7, 2016 at 11:01 amBob, Dave, and family. We send our condolences, prayers, and love. A wonderful remembrance and tribute in this obituary. Peggie lived a long and “spirited” life. Bob and Dave, we know you both to be principled men and great long time friends, and you both found equally wonderful life partners. No doubt your Mom was a valuable influence in these virtuous paths you both walked in your own lives. A true compass is a wonderful legacy to leave with your children. Our love to all.
Bob & Ann-Marie
Mary lawyer
February 7, 2016 at 11:23 amI am so sorry to hear about your mom I remember meeting her at your wedding she was so sweet and lots of fun !!!She raised 2 great sons that’s I sure she was very proud of again sorry Bob and David for your loss
Jim & Jean Bednar
February 7, 2016 at 5:08 pmFor Family and Friends of Peggie – We are so sorry for your loss, which we certainly share, as Peggie was a dear friend for many years and we worked together on many different projects, sharing common goals and values. We miss her already but are thankful that all of us can be confident of her presence with the Lord! We can hardly imagine that she will no longer be with us in the usual occasions but look forward to sharing a glorious reunion with her in the Lord’s timing. Meanwhile, God’s grace prevails for us all, Jim and Jean Bednar
Chuck Simmons
February 8, 2016 at 9:49 amPeggie, your light will truly be missed. Until we met again in His presence…
Love Chuck and Charly
Sam Menefee
February 8, 2016 at 1:13 pmI am sent a condolence card to David and Bob with a “Celebrate Life” title because their mom celebrated her life in Jesus Christ with every breath she took. Now, while we mourn loss, she continues in the presence of Life Himself, our Lord Jesus. I and the folks in the Impact Group, who enjoyed her friendship and inspiration, will be missing her company but rejoicing that she is now face to face with the One she loved so deeply. We look forward to being with you on the 13th to celebrate a life so beautifully lived. Agape, Sam
Carol Carter
February 8, 2016 at 6:11 pmDear Bob & David & Family,
What a blessing Peggie was to me and everyone who had the opportunity to know her. She put her faith and trust in Jesus into action like no one else I’ve known. Her caring and thoughtfulness seemed boundless – always surprising others with unexpected treasures from the sales she frequented. And that beaming smile she flashed – that could light up the room and a heart on the darkest day – how she will be missed. But I smile when I think of Peggie in Heaven. What a wonderful day! I know she heard the Lord say, “Well done, good & faithful Servant!”
Carol and Gary Arena
February 9, 2016 at 12:33 pmHow saddened we were to hear of Peggie’s passing. We truly expected to read letters to the editor and here of her latest wonderful cause well into her ’90’s. Peggie’s energy was contagious. She had a beautiful smile, a hearty laugh, and a warm and giving heart. She will be missed by so many. As you know, your mom fought the “good fight” and she is know at rest in God’s glory. We are so very disappointed to miss her memorial service on Saturday, but we will be out of town. We send our love and prayers. Robert and David, how blessed to have had Peggie Lauber Miller as your mother!
Miriam Graham
February 10, 2016 at 10:13 amWith deepest sympathy on the passing of your mother. I was her insurance agent for many years when I was with my prior employer and after I switched positions had kept in touch with her. She was such a sweet lady and an inspiration to all who met her. She would often come into the office on rainy days wearing her cute hats and be a ray of sunshine. I always enjoyed her visits and viewed her as a friend. Even when things were tough she would ask you to pray with her, even if it was about her teeth or a bill she received. Her faith and love for the Lord was a real inspiration.
Caryn and Ben Vincent
February 10, 2016 at 7:11 pmOur deepest condolences to Peggie’s family. Her laughter will always be in my memory.
Babe Quintrall
February 12, 2016 at 9:19 amI am sorry for the loss of your dear Peggy. Death is such a tragedy for all of us, and when it touches us personally, it’s sometimes difficult to find the comfort we search for. Our loving Heavenly Father Jehovah, the “God of all comfort,” understands your pain and so he promises to “swallow up death forever” and eliminate all pain and suffering. As you read the verses below I believe you will find the comfort and hope that you need to help you through the difficult days ahead. All the best wishes for your family.
John 5:28,29
Psalm 37:11,29
Isaiah 25:8
Revelation 21:4
Mildred Perdue
February 13, 2016 at 12:02 amsending my condolences to the Miller family on the passing of Peggie. I knew her from Hempfield BIC church. Her smile will truly be missed. May God’s peace be with you. I am sorry I cannot be at her service, I have another committment.
Mildred Perdue
Emily and Robert Norris
February 13, 2016 at 3:36 pmFirst and foremost my condolences to David, Bob and their families. I first met Peggie when my husband and I moved to Lancaster from Maryland. We shared the back pew of HBIC. It didn’t take many Sundays to pass before I knew how special she was. She was a vibrant and kind lady who had an enthusiasm for life like no other. Peggie and I took bus trips and day trips, but the happiest she made me was when she rang my doorbell and asked to come in for a cup of tea and to chat. She has been my mentor and the lady who inspired me the most. I wasn’t quite ready to let her go. I thought she would always be by my side leading me through my aging years as easily as she navigated her last years. Peggie was a friend of many, and a mother figure to some. Most importantly, she was our sister in Christ. I will miss her, but happy that she is rejoicing with her Lord and Savior in Heaven.
Emily Norris
Lynne Brashier Lindenthal
February 13, 2016 at 7:38 pmBob and Dave, it is with a heavy heart that I read of your mom’s passing. I will always remember her beautiful smile and her awesome sense of humor-priceless. I can’t begin to imagine your sense of loss. However, I know without a doubt that she has found peace and everlasting love in Heaven. What a great privilege it was to have had Peggie Miller in my life!!
Jeff Sharpe
February 16, 2016 at 1:48 pmRobert,
Sorry to hear about your Mother passing. My condolences to you and your family and her many friends.
Sincerely,
Jeff Sharpe
Internet Archive
Fort Wayne, IN
Mark and Kristin Cote
March 12, 2016 at 2:55 pmDear David and Bob,
I am the oldest of Steve and Joyce Cote’s 8 children. My wife, Kristin, and I, and our three children now live in Peru as missionaries with Kids Alive International. My parents passed along the news that your mom is in His presence. For this we rejoice in the midst of sadness. We trust that you comfort might be real and overflow to others as Paul describes in his words to the Corinthian community.
We loved your mother and were always encouraged by her presence and passion for the Lord and His holiness. As a child, Peggie Miller was always a friend of our family and a person of integrity that I knew was faithful to the Lord. As an adult, whenever I would see your mom, I left encouraged and grateful for her life. Even in our transition and ministry as a family, I remember her life as an encouragement to us. Thank you for loving her as she has loved in the way you described your final moments together on this earth. We await with you the resurrection reality of all that we hope for in our Lord.
As a remembrance of your mom’s life on earth and with the Lord, we have made a Victorious Grace Gift to a memorial fund in our daughter’s name: Victoria’s Little Lambs Fund (helps sick children in various places around the world).
Grace to you,
Mark, Kristin, Caleb, Jacob, and Rachel Cote
Bruce Taylor, Arizona
March 15, 2016 at 12:20 amI’m a friend of Peggie, who just learned of her passing, when I sent her my new address.
Here’s my reply to her sons, and the message I had sent to her, which she knows, and now do her family and friends:
Thanks for the reply, Bob and Dave. I’m sorry to hear about your mom. We all loved her. We were friends for about thirty-five years, more than half my life
I’m the one who went to UVM, and fought porn. She loved it that I was an alumnus with her, and on the same battlefield.
She was one of our best cheerleaders, and as good an example of an angel on earth as there ever was sent to help us.
I’ll have to behave, even better, knowing she can see everything, now.
You were lucky to have her as your mother, and we were lucky that you could share her with us.
My best, always. Bruce Taylor
Dear Peggie … I still miss the old days, especially working with my real friends, like you and the people who cheered me on and prayed for me and helped me do my best in fighting the evil empire. I know it’s worse, and I’m sorry we didn’t win the whole war while we were at it, but our kids and grandkids learned a lesson that may just save them, and they can pass on to the next gen. That’s what I believe, and that’s my hope. That’s true about you, too. You did great work, and the effects of your work will last forever. That’s saying something.
I miss ya, Peg. Love ya, still, and always will. Your friend, Bruce
James J. West
June 7, 2018 at 11:56 amI am retired in Sacramento and just learned of Peggie’s passing. Bruce Taylor Said everything perfectly. Peggie was truly an “angel on earth” who unselfishly gave of herself in the cause of goodness and righteousness. I am as confident a I have ever been about anything that she is being rewarded appropriately and mightily.