A Life Story

Nancy Louise Miller Willard, 86, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 27, 2026, in Savannah, Georgia. Born on May 24, 1940, in Edmore, Michigan, she was the daughter of the late Howard and Nellie (Sherwood) Miller. Nancy devoted her life to caring for others. She graduated from The Ohio State University with a degree in Occupational Therapy and enjoyed a fulfilling career helping countless individuals throughout her years of practice in Phoenix, Arizona and Florida. She made her home in Port Orange, Florida, where she retired in 2006 and where she continued to embrace people and pursuits she loved. Nancy had a deep appreciation for family, friendship, and life’s simple joys. She was an avid family historian who delighted in researching her ancestry and preserving the stories of generations past. She enjoyed board games and puzzles, treasured time spent with friends, and especially loved visiting St. Augustine, Florida, and Ponce Inlet lighthouse. Among her greatest joys was working in her garden and her beloved dachshunds, Cassie and Chloe, whom she faithfully walked and lovingly cared for. She is survived by her loving son, Eric Willard and his dachshund, Charlie, whom she lived with in Rincon, Georgia the last 4 years. Nancy was preceded in death by her brother, Lee Miller; and her beloved daughter, Alicia Willard. Nancy will be remembered for her intelligence, caring heart, and quiet strength. Her legacy lives on in the memories she created, the lives she touched through her work and friendships. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home, Effingham Chapel (912) 754-6421.