Virginia M. (Van Vechten) Miller

Virginia M. Miller, 87, a longtime resident of Newark, Delaware peacefully passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2026.  Born in Nyack, New York on July 23, 1938, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Muriel (Gifford) Van Vechten.

Virginia was a devoted homemaker and later joined the staff of the John G. Leach School.  As a school aid, she worked with children with challenges, and touched many hearts and lives.   She was also a dedicated volunteer with Faithful Friends Animal Society.

Virginia is survived by her husband of 71 years, Jacob H. Miller III; her sons, Glenn Miller and wife, Mary, Greg Miller and wife, Betsy; her grandchildren, Cristin LaRue, Matthew Miller (Grace), Caitlin Draper (Chris), Casey McHugh (Matthew) and Molly Conly (Kurt); her great grandchildren, Mckenna, Mason, Siris, Avery, Daniel, Remy, Laine and Beau.  She is also survived by her sister, Linda Sanderson.

Virginia was predeceased by her brother, Paul Van Vechten.

Through their 71 years together, Virginia and Jake enjoyed many trips in their various RVs, such as a visit to Alaska, a trip to Nova Scotia, and many trips to the Delaware beaches which Virginia loved.  On one memorable trip they travelled across country to California and back, with Virginia’s sister Linda driving her own motorhome, and their brother Paul (Dutch) following on his motorcycle.  Through it all, the best part was always coming home to gather with family and attend the many activities and events her grandchildren and great grandchildren participated in.

Virginia hosted Christmas dinner for the family for many years.  The long table was filled with family, friends and good food, including Virginia’s Sweet Potato Casserole which we all looked forward to.  After the clean-up, she would always make sure there was something special to put out in the woodlands behind their home for the family of foxes living there.  She always had a spot in her heart for animals (and even allowed her son Glenn to adopt two ducks named Oliver and Sandra from his grammar school class).

Virginia was adept at needlework and crafts, and made many beautiful items over the years – not the least of which were the hand knitted slippers for many family members.  Her creations frequently featured bunnies or snowmen.

She will be remembered and loved by those who were lucky enough to share a part of her life, and will remain forever in our hearts.

Family and friends are invited to visit at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Pike Creek on Thursday, July 9 from 10:00 – 11:00AM.  Funeral services will begin at 11:00AM, immediately followed by interment at Gracelawn Memorial Park, 2220 N. DuPont Highway, New Castle.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Virginia may be made to Faithful Friends Animal Society, 165 Airport Road, New Castle, Delaware 19720 (https://www.faithfulfriends.us)

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Virginia M. (Van Vechten) Miller, please visit our floral store.