In Loving Memory - Virginia Miller
Virginia Miller
1930 - 2018
Virginia Miller was born in Winnipeg, in January, 1930. Her father worked for Great West Life, which meant, through her childhood, the family was often transferred to other cities in the country. Ultimately the family settled in Vancouver, BC, where Virginia was able to complete her Bachelor of Arts degree at UBC in 1951. After graduation she began working as a legal secretary in Vancouver. While at UBC, she met her future husband, Clive Miller, who was studying law. Virginia and Clive married in 1954 in Vancouver and over the next several years had four beautiful children. In 1962 the decision was made to move to Clive’s hometown of Portage la Prairie, in order that he might join the family law firm.
It was in Portage la Prairie that Virginia began to get really involved in the community and its volunteer work. Her daughter, Leigh, adds, “Mom was a very bright lady and did a lot of volunteering. She fundraised for cancer research, was active on many of her church committees, was very involved in Arts Festivals in the area and did so much more.” She also served on the Board of Directors for what was then called, the Crippled Children’s Society of Manitoba (CCSM).
“Mom wasn’t a confident driver and never drove outside of Portage, so she would get on the Greyhound Bus to go to and from Portage la Prairie for board meetings. Her commitment and determination to serving those less fortunate and in need was very strong.”
She served as CEO for CCSM from 1978 to 1980. During that time, she traveled to Edmonton, Vancouver and other cities in Canada for conferences related to people with disabilities.
In August, of 2018, Virginia passed away. On behalf of everyone at SMD, thank you, Virginia, for your generosity and time spent with us. Your commitment to serving people with disabilities across the country and in particular, Manitoba, was a tremendous contribution to enhancing their quality of life. Thank you!