Thelma Gene Barton Miller

Thelma Gene Barton Miller, a beloved matriarch, passed away peacefully in her home in Fort Davis, Texas on June 30, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on March 26, 1922, in New Orleans, Louisiana, although raised in Vancouver, B.C., Gene lived a life rich with love, community service, and family ties.

Gene's educational journey culminated in her recognition as valedictorian of her high school, a testament to her hard work and dedication. On March 29, 1945, she married Fountain Moreau "Roe" Miller, Jr., embarking on a partnership that would span decades and bring forth a family that she cherished deeply.

Throughout her life, Gene nurtured her family while also contributing to the broader community. She held the honor of having served twice as the Worthy Matron of Fabens, TX Chapter 763 Order of the Eastern Star. Gene also served as the President of the Fabens ISD Parent Teacher Association of Fabens, Texas and was a valued member of the West of the Pecos Cattle Women's Association. Her legacy as a volunteer shone brightly during World War II, where she worked with the USO in Seattle, WA, and was later recognized as one of three civilians cited by the Canadian government for her significant contributions to Project "Green Light." She also took pride in her involvement with Bloy's Camp Meeting since 1945 and was an active member of various organizations including the Marfa Ace High-Deuce Low Bridge Club, the Daughters of the British Empire, and the Overland Trail Museum Historical Society.

Gene's journey took her across various locales in Texas. She and her cowboy husband lived at the Rockpile Ranch in Jeff Davis County, as well as having periods of residence at Pompeys Pillar Montana, Tornillo, and Orla, Texas. Ultimately in 1991, Fort Davis became her final home, where she continued to bask in the company of her loved ones.

She is survived by her devoted children, Sandra Miller Reinhardt and her husband Dale of Merryville, Louisiana, and Thomas Barton Miller and his wife Pam of Fort Davis, Texas, who carry forward her legacy of compassion and strength. Gene was preceded in death by her husband, F.M. Roe Miller, Jr.; her parents, John Stanley Barton and Ruby Stewart Barton; her brother, John Barton; her sister, Eleanor Davidson; and her grandson, Oriz Lee Miller. Gene leaves behind her beloved sister Joan Moxness, her sister-in-law Bonnie Barton, cherished niece Lauren Stedman, along with her adoring grandchildren Roe Anne Day (Randy), Kaysie Taccetta (Joe), and Bart Miller (Diana). She was a proud great grandmother to Cash Day, Carter Day, Trent Taccetta, Gracie Taccetta, James Miller, Josh Miller, and a great great grandmother to Alexandria Rose Miller and Avacyn Miller.

A graveside service to honor and celebrate Gene's life will be held on July 11, 2025, at Hillcrest Cemetery in Fort Davis, Texas. Friends and family are invited to gather from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm as they remember a remarkable woman whose influence and love will continue to resonate through the lives she touched. Honorary Pallbearers will be Steve Kennedy, Wayne Seipp, George Womack, Jim Espy, Tom Lee Waterston, Joe Duncan and Ron Traux. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations to honor Gene be made to the following organizations:

Bloys Camp Meeting

% Angela Becker

6 Desta Drive, Suite 2670

Midland, TX 79705

Joes, Espy, Finley Camp

% Bill Coffey

PO Box 391

San Angelo, TX 76902

Jeff Davis County EMS - Fort Davis, Texas

Overland Trail Museum Historical Society - Fort Davis, Texas

or a charity of your choice.

Thelma Gene Barton Miller's spirit lives on in the hearts of her family and community, a lasting legacy of love, commitment, and unwavering support. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.

Vaya con Dios, MOM.