Ida Miller

Hopkinton- Mrs. Ida Miller, 81, passed away peacefully, October 1, 2015 at the Highland Nursing Home in Massena with her family at her side. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop. Ida was born in Brooklyn on February 2, 1934 to the late Joseph and Carmen (Varea) Gerena. She graduated from high school in Brooklyn. Ida met Harry A. Miller Sr., who was serving in the US Air Force and stationed on Long Island; they were married in June of 1956. After the birth of their first child James, they relocated to the North Country and Harry took over his father's farm. Raising their farm and family together, Harry and Ida had 4 more children. Ida then went to work at Montgomery Ward, Grants, and lastly JC Penny, in Potsdam for over 20 years. They shared a marriage filled with hard work, dedication and love for 57 years, until the time of Harrys passing on April 26, 2014. Those who knew and loved Ida will always remember her passion for belongings and decorations. She was able to find the beauty in certain items that would then become her personal possessions. Each holiday allowed for an opportunity for Ida to decorate and show off her most prized pieces; something she took great pleasure in. Ida cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was always thinking of others needs before her own. She truly enjoyed bowling was a member of the women's league and the Ladies Auxiliary in Potsdam. She is survived by her children: Deborah Schoettlin of Potsdam, Harry and Terry Miller Jr. of Winchester, VA., Mickey Miller of Hopkinton, and Henry and Rebecca Miller of Hopkinton, daughter-in-law, Peggy (Miller) Drew of North Lawrence, 11 grandchildren: Jeremy, Moriah, Crystal, John, Matthew, Ryan, Henry Jr., Zachary, Leanne, Erin, and Adam, 5 great-grandchildren: Cadence, Skylar, Jarad, Emit and Lilly, her sister Mary Ester Figeroa of FL, sister-in-law Lois Gerena of Las Vegas, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Besides her husband, Ida was predeceased by her son, James Miller, a sister Helena Demea, and brothers John and Louis Gerena. Visitation will be Wednesday from 5 to 7pm followed by a closing prayer service at the funeral home. A graveside service for Ida and her husband Harry, complete with military honors will be held at a later date at Hopkinton- Ft. Jackson Cemetery. For those wishing to express an act of kindness, memorial contributions may be made in Ida's honor to the Tri-Town Volunteer Rescue Squad. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.hammillfh.com