Volena (Webb) Miller

Volena (Webb) Miller, 83, of Charlestown, Indiana, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2025, in New Albany, surrounded by her family. Born and raised in Mayking, Kentucky, in 1942, she was the eldest of her siblings- a role that shaped her lifelong devotion to caring for others. She was preceded in death by her brothers James Webb, Billy Webb, Johnny Webb, Harvey Webb, and Steve Stidham, and her sister Stella Holbrook. She is survived by one sister, Francis Hicks of Mayking, KY. Volena was also preceded in death by her parents, Mable Webb Stidham and Ernest Webb.

At age 18, Volena married the love of her life, Buford Miller, and together they shared 65 years of marriage. They spent their lives growing up together, building a home filled with love and hard work, and finding joy in the simple things- thrifting trips, evening drives, and watching wildlife side by side.

Volena dedicated her life to her family. A stay-at-home mother for many years, she poured her heart into raising their four children, Bufford Miller of Lexington, IN, Greg Miller (Beckie) of Louisville, KY, Sondra Graves of Marysville, IN, and James Miller (Dana) of Charlestown, IN. Her home became a second home to many of her grandchildren, who lovingly knew her as Mamaw Miller. To them, and to many of their friends, she was a warm, steady presence who never let anyone leave hungry.

For the last 64 years, Charlestown was her home. Her door was always open, and anyone who walked in quickly became family.

Later in life, Volena worked in custodial services at Maple Manor Nursing Home. It was far more than a job to her. The residents adored her, and she cared for them with the same tenderness she had always shown her own family- bringing small treats, checking in often, and offering comfort and companionship. In her final days, it felt fitting that she received that same level of care in return, surrounded by nurses who quickly came to love her like their own and often shared how she brightened their days.

Raised in the traditions of eastern Kentucky, Volena was a phenomenal cook. Her kitchen was always full- an ingredient prepared multiple ways, plenty of options to choose from, and if nothing happened to be warm on the stove, she’d gladly make something on the spot because she knew it was someone’s favorite. Hospitality wasn’t something she worked at; it was simply who she was.

In her final years, Volena lived with dementia. Though many memories faded, she never forgot that she was “Mamaw Miller.” That name, and the love and memories behind it, stayed with her until the very end.

Volena leaves behind her loving husband, Buford; her 4 children and their spouses; 10 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and a legacy of generosity and quiet, steady love that will live on in all who knew her.

A graveside service to honor Volena's life will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025 at Charlestown Cemetery.