Leona was born on August 7, 1930 in Watauga County NC. She grew up in the North Carolina Mountains during the depression. She was one of nine children, and the only deaf child born to George and Bessie Miller. Leona attended North Carolina School for the Deaf, where she completed 12 years of education. This opened up a wealth of opportunities that would have otherwise limited her life experiences.
She is preceded in death by her parents, George and Bessie Miller; six siblings Nancy Brown, Thomas Miller, Lovely Danner, Hansford Miller, Betty Chapman, Malcolm Miller. two husbands, Robert Fletcher and later Linwood Maready; a son, Tony Fletcher; and two grandchildren, Kelly Mitchell and Christy Mitchell.
Those left behind to cherish Leona's memory include by her two daughters, Debra Fletcher (oldest), Katherine Fletcher and Chris Whorley (partner); three grandchildren, Joseph Mitchell and wife Pada Mitchell, Jamie Mitchell and Wife Kristina, Mindy Valencia and husband Tokie; 12 great grandchildren, Tyler Mitchell, Gracie Mitchell, Sydney Mitchell, Kristen Abernathy, Agustine Cruz, Elijah Mitchell, Symantha Mitchell, Isaiah Mitchell and Kylie Mitchell, Alfonso Chirinos, Mariela Chirinos, and Joseph Jacob Mitchel; a sister, Nell Porter and husband Clint; and a brother, Richard Miller.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the staff of UNC Health Blue Ridge and Autumn Care of Drexel for the outstanding care provided to Samantha and her family during this transitional time.
In addition, we are thankful for the Alder Springs of Morganton community. Samantha lived at Alder Springs for 2 wonderful years surrounded by her cherished deaf community members.
A “Celebration of Leona’s Life” will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday July 20, 2024 at the First Baptist Church of Morganton. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Floral tributes can be sent directly to the church: First Baptist Church of Morganton, 502 W Union Street Morganton, NC 28655.
In lieu of flowers donations are welcomed to Alder Springs Deaf & Blind Community
Alder Springs Deaf & Blind Community
Evolving Community Capital Campaign
PO Box 1397
Morganton, NC 28680
828-443-7723 (voice/text)
Online condolences may be made at www.kirkseyfh.com
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