Billie Joan Miller

Billie Joan Miller, born on July 26, 1929, in the town of Warren, Indiana began her life’s journey with a heart full of love. She graced this world for nearly 96 years, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, compassion, and cherished memories. It is with profound sorrow and deep reverence that we share of her passing on July 14, 2025, at home in Lafayette, Indiana, surrounded by family.

Throughout her life Billie wore many hats, but none more cherished than that of a devoted wife and mother. She faced the loss of her husband, Rodney John Miller, whom she married on November 15, 1958, with profound strength and commitment; he preceded her in death on October 5, 2022. Their relationship exemplified their lifelong commitment to each other. She was a loving stay at home mom util her daughters were in junior high. She then went to work for the Marion Trustee Office and eventually returned to Indiana Bell as a Service Representative after having worked for them prior to getting married. She took pride in her work experiences and retired in 1994. Billie was also an active member of the First Christian Church, Hostess House, Kappa Delta Phi, and several bridge clubs throughout her life. Most recently she attended Gathering Point Church in Lafayette, Indiana and joined Bible Study Fellowship which she attended weekly with her daughter, daughter-in-law, and grandson; four generations. Billie's innate ability to nurture those around was seen and felt in both her professional and personal life. 

She was fiercely proud of her family, including her daughters and son-in-law, Renee Gerstorff (Anderson, IN) and Valree (Rex) Kinch (Lafayette, IN).  In addition to her daughters Billie is also survived by eight grandchildren: Cameron Kinch (Chicago, IL), Amanda (Chad Buckler) Gerstorff (Marion, IN), Zachary (Shai) Kinch (Lafayette, IN), Grant Gerstorff (Gas City, IN), and Emily (David Semenick), Gerstorff (Marion, IN), as well as nine great grandchildren. She was also blessed with a number of special friends that she remained close to throughout her life. Those who knew her often spoke of her gentle nature, abundant kindness and her sweet smile that conveyed a life rich in love and joy. 

Billie was preceded in death by her daughter Rhonda Miller, Billie's father Chalmer Weesner, her mother Iva Weesner, and her sister Omega Hunt, all of whom left an indelible mark on her heart. Her brother Chalmer Weesner Jr. also passed prior to her birth.

As we bid farewell to Billie, we invite her family and friends to gather and celebrate her life during visitation on August 2, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by a funeral service commencing at 1:00 PM, both to be held at Raven Choate Robinson Funeral Home, 1202 W Kem Road, Marion, IN 46952. In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations be made to Services for the Visually and Hearing Impaired, Marion, Indiana; a non-profit service very close to Billie's and her families' hearts.

In our memories, Billie will forever remain - a cherished soul that brightened the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her kindness and unwavering love will continue to ripple through the lives of her surviving family and friends, as they honor her memory in their hearts and daily lives.