Harley Miller

Canton - Harley Miller, 87, flew away free to his eternal home in the early morning hours of Sunday, May 7^th. Harley was an optimistic, kind, generous, and wonderful man who was well-loved and respected by his family and his community.

A life-long resident of the Beaverdam Community in Haywood County, Harley was predeceased by his parents, Steve and Bessie Miller; a brother, Bobby Miller; and four sisters, Gracie Worley, Macie Robinson, Inez Pressley, and Mary Jane Robinson.

Harley was well-known in the area for his cheerful demeanor and his artistic talent. He owned and operated Miller Signs, where he worked as a commercial artist and sign painter for over 50 years. He started painting as a young boy and never stopped. Today, his signs are still found in and around Western North Carolina.

Harley was a long-standing member of Beaverdam United Methodist Church. He taught and inspired many by bringing the children’s message every Sunday morning for over 12 years. He illustrated his lessons with visuals and wonderful examples, which brought the messages to life, much to the delight of the children and the whole congregation. Harley faithfully served his Lord, his church, his family, and his community for almost 88 years.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 64 years, Mary Evelyn Robinson Miller; a sister, Margaret Broom of Hendersonville; godchildren Wes Bell (Karole and son Kenisyn) of Canton and Lindsey Bell Robinson (Maurice and son Collin) of Canton; numerous nieces and nephews; many special friends; and his wonderful caregivers.

A celebration of his life is planned at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 12, 2023, in the Canton Chapel of Wells Funeral Home with the Reverend Gordon Pike and Reverend Jane Jenkins officiating.  Burial will follow at Beaverdam Community Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.

Memorials can be made to Beaverdam Community Cemetery (note: Harley Miller Memorial). Please send memorials to Patricia Robinson, 28 Garrett Drive, Canton, NC 28716.

The care of Mr. Miller has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Canton and an online memorial register is available at “Obituaries” at www.wellsfuneralhome.com