Martha June Miller-Gouge

“ I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award me on that day—- and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:6-8

Martha June Miller-Gouge known to family and friends as Junebug, age 73, took her final breaths in her earthly body and was welcomed into God’s glorious kingdom.

Junebug was born in Johnson City to her parents Beryl and Grace Brown Miller. She graduated from Science Hill High School in 1969. She then went on to East Tennessee State University to obtain a Bachelor of Social Welfare in 1977. After graduating, June moved to Knoxville, to work with the American Red Cross. While she was in Knoxville, she started the first disaster relief program. June traveled to many different disasters while working for the Red Cross. June’s passion was helping others in need. Once she moved back to Johnson City in the early 1990’s, June started working in rehabilitation hospitals as well as several local nursing homes. June had 40 years of social service in her career upon her retirement.

June was passionate about helping others, but the most rewarding job was being a mother. Ellie was her proudest accomplishment. She and Ellie shared the love of cooking, going to thrift stores, and sitting on the front porch eating ice cream sandwiches and drinking lemonade. June had a strong faith and often shared how the Lord changed her life. To say that family and friends will miss her greatly is an understatement. June was a well-respected colleague, as well as a loyal friend to many people, including several life- long friendships. The number of lives touched by her is truly immeasurable.

She has always been described by those around her as someone who loved to garden and share her wealth of tomatoes. She was often described as loving, giving, having a sense of humor as well as being determined to not let her wheelchair define her.

June was preceded in death by her parents, Beryl and Grace Brown Miller; brother, Thomas Miller, and husband, Edward Gouge. She is survived by her daughter, Elinor Gaines; brother, Billy Miller (Nancy), as well as several nieces and nephews and one granddaughter.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, September 3, 2024 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Monte Vista Funeral Home. Funeral Service will follow at 7:00 PM with Pastor Doug Brown and Minister Lamar Garrison officiating. Committal Service and Interment will be held Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at 10:00 AM in Section 11 at Monte Vista Memorial Park.

The family would like to extend their thanks to the staff at Bristol Regional Medical Center ICU, 4000 West, and Ballad Hospice and to her caregivers Sharon Clark, Sherry Passmore, Melissa Campbell, and Stacy Shrock for all the love and care that was shown.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the Parkinson’s Foundation, 5757 Waterford District Drive, Suite 310, Miami, FL 33126.

This obituary was lovingly written by her daughter.

Arrangements especially for Mrs. Martha June Miller-Gouge and her family have been made through Monte Vista Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 1900 E. Oakland Avenue, Johnson City, TN; 423-282-2631.