Mr. Billy Edward Miller, Sr.

Obituary For Mr. Billy Edward Miller, Sr.

A life of unwavering faith, selfless service, and pioneering achievement — that is the legacy of Mr. Billy Miller, a devoted man of God whose steadfast commitment to faith, family, and education left an indelible mark on every life he touched.

Throughout his years, Mr. Miller faithfully served as a pillar of Gospel Temple Missionary Baptist Church in Luxora, Arkansas. His devotion to ministry was evident in every role he embraced — Deacon, Adult Sunday School Teacher, BTU Director, and Trustee. Through humble leadership and unshakable faith, he strengthened the church family and inspired generations to live boldly for Christ.

Mr. Miller’s pursuit of excellence extended far beyond the church walls. A proud graduate of Rosenwald High School in Osceola, Arkansas, he went on to break barriers as one of the first African Americans to graduate from Arkansas State University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. His courage and determination not only opened doors for himself, but paved the way for others to rise higher.

As an educator, Mr. Miller poured his heart into shaping young minds throughout his teaching career in Missouri and Arkansas. His greatest impact came during his years with the Blytheville School District, where he taught eighth-grade mathematics with patience, discipline, and a genuine love for his students. Beyond equations and lessons, he instilled values of perseverance, integrity, and faith — lessons that continue to guide the many lives he influenced.

Mr. Miller also blazed trails in civic leadership, becoming one of the first African Americans to hold public office in Arkansas as a Luxora School Board Member. His heart for service extended to the community as a founder of the Charles Strong Recreation Center, providing after-school and summer programs, tutoring, and resources for the youth of Luxora. His belief was simple yet profound: “Service to others is both a duty and a privilege.”

On Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the age of 87, Mr. Miller peacefully transitioned from labor to reward in Conyers, Georgia.

A Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Zion Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, 304 South Main Street, Luxora, Arkansas. The Celebration of Life Service will follow at 1:00 p.m., with Reverend Lawrence Haley, Pastor of Christ Temple Baptist Church in Blytheville, delivering the eulogy. Interment will follow at Luxora City Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.mhfuneralhomeinc. or visit us on Facebook at McDonald-Horne Funeral Home.

Professional services and arrangements are entrusted to McDonald-Horne Funeral Home.