Back to Obituaries McDonald-Horne Funeral Home, Inc. | Blytheville, AR

Mr. Billy Edward Miller, Sr.

Passed 10/18/2025

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.


Condolences & Tributes

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Mr. Miller was a great man, mentor, and teacher. He was one of my favorite teachers at West Junior High.. He always had positive words... He knew that I hated math but he made learning math easy. I was so touched when him and Mrs. Miller showed up for my wedding many many years ago. He will be truly miss. My condolences to the family. Renee Manning-James

Renee Manning-James

Mr. Miller was a Godsend to me in 8th grade. I don't think I would have made it through that year without his level head, soft teachings on dealing with others when they are not necessarily the nicest, and reminding me that I was not the things kids would say-to remember who I am. Mrs. Miller attempted to teach me how to answer word problems accurately, and I'm sad to say I never got the hang of it. Bobby would eat all the bananas so the answer was zero or some crazy thing.

I consider both as some of the best teachers I had growing up. Mr. Miller was one of those teachers you don't forget and I still think of him from time to time. Sending my heartfelt condolences to family and friends.

Heather (White) Trout

Mr. Miller was so much more than my eighth grade Math Teacher, whereas, he was a role model, friend, big brother and someone who actually cared about his students. He attended several students Homegoing and those of the parents as well that I attended as well. Everyone of my classmates called me by my whole name and Mr. Miller was no exception. He wanted us all to be successful in math and he did everything that he could to make it happen. He will always have a special place in my heart and may he rest in love till we all meet again someday!🙏🏽🙏🏽

Edna Earl

Mr. Miller was the best teacher I EVER had. He showed kindness to his students. He laughed with us and taught that learning is fun as well as important. His faith in God was evident in all he did at South Pemiscot Schools. He became a good friend in later years. I will never forget that he attended our 40th class reunion along with his wife. He was still the Mr. Miller we all knew and loved. I take comfort in knowing we will see each other again.

Cecilia Green

He took personal time to assist my mother to obtain her GED. She was struggling with math - he helped her learn and achieve the goal. Without his selfless tutoring and encouragement it would not have happened.

An absolute angel.

Rest In Peace Sir...

Dave Cross

Mr. Miller was my 9th and 10th grade Math teacher in Steele. Mr. Miller believed in me when my Moma was killed that year. I did not care about learning anything. He took me under his wing and helped me along. He was more than a teacher . He was a friend when I needed one. And a mentor when I did not realize I needed it. God bless this sweet man. Mr. Miller came to our 40th high school reunion in 2015, He did not make it to our 50th which was this year. But his students were still loving and remember his kindess to all. RIP until you welcome all your kids home. You were a sweet part of this journey called life. Deb

Debra Wilburn

Mr. Miller was my 9th and 10th grade Math teacher in Steele. Mr. Miller believed in me when my Moma was killed that year. I did not care about learning anything. He took me under his wing and helped me along. He was more than a teacher . He was a friend when I needed one. And a mentor when I did not realize I needed it. God bless this sweet man. Mr. Miller came to our 40th high school reunion in 2015, He did not make it to our 50th which was this year. But his students were still loving and remember his kindess to all. RIP until you welcome all your kids home. You were a sweet part of this journey called life. Deb

Debra Wilburn

Mr. Miller was my absolute favorite teacher. He was more than a teacher. He was a mementos and a friend to his students. He was very loved and will be missed

Becky Albright Nance

Mr. Miller was one of the very best to walk the halls of South Pemiscot School in Steele, MO. He made learning math easy. Loved having him as my teacher. I would occasionally run into him and his gorgeous wife a while back. He never forgot my face or name. To his family; know this incredible man had a huge affect on so many, whether as teacher and/or friend. Prayers for his family and the community.

Ellen Funderburk Mays

There's not really words to express the admiration and appreciation I have for Mr Miller. I had him for a teacher for 3 years. His dedication to each individual student made us feel like the best student in his class! So many wonderful memories during those years. Prayers for strength and comfort to his family and friends.

Debra Brooks

Mr. Miller was a great man & teacher. He was one of my favorite teachers at West Junior High.. He always had positive words... My condolences to the family. He will be missed..

Tamela Taylor

Mr. Miller was a great man & teacher. He was one of my favorite teachers at West Junior High.. He always had positive words... My condolences to the family. He will be missed..

Tamela Taylor

I met Mr. Miller while serving as Elementary Principal at Luxora Elementary. He would stop by often and offer words of encouragement. He was a great community leader. Mr. Miller worked tirelessly to help the children in Luxora academically and in extra curricular activities! I greatly admired and respected him!

Gloria Phillips

We grive the loss of my brother Ed, and our Uncle Ed. Adrian we are keeping you in prayer.

Robert Miller Family

Mr. Miller was a great man. He was one of my favorite teachers at West Junior High. He was a great leader with his quiet strength and I am so terribly sorry for your loss. He was a great teacher.

Teresa Parnell Barnes

Praying for strength and comfort today and in the days ahead. The world lost a GREAT MAN! My sincere condolences. 🙏🏽

Michel Williams Echols

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

McDonald-Horne Funeral Home, Inc. | Blytheville, AR

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