Longtime Galesburg Resident Vivian E. Miller Dies at 97

Miller was a devoted homemaker and member of First United Methodist Church.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Vivian E. Miller, a 97-year-old resident of Galesburg, Illinois, passed away on February 14, 2026. She was a devoted homemaker and longtime member of First United Methodist Church in Galesburg. Miller is survived by one son, two brothers, a daughter-in-law, special friends and caregivers, three grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Vivian E. Miller's passing marks the end of an era for a longtime Galesburg resident who was known for her compassion and generosity, including reading to neighborhood children who were blind. Her life and legacy reflect the values of community and service that have defined Galesburg for generations.

The details

Vivian E. Miller was born on September 15, 1928, in Woodstock, Illinois, to Aris R. and Pearl (Elkinton) Cox. She married Darrol D. Miller on June 27, 1948, in Monmouth, Illinois. He passed away on March 30, 1985. Vivian was a devoted homemaker and member of First United Methodist Church in Galesburg. She was known for her caring and compassionate nature, including reading to neighborhood children who were blind.

  • Vivian E. Miller was born on September 15, 1928.
  • Vivian E. Miller married Darrol D. Miller on June 27, 1948.
  • Darrol D. Miller passed away on March 30, 1985.
  • Vivian E. Miller passed away on February 14, 2026.
  • A graveside service will be held on February 28, 2026.

The players

Vivian E. Miller

A 97-year-old resident of Galesburg, Illinois, who was a devoted homemaker and longtime member of First United Methodist Church.

Darrol D. Miller

Vivian E. Miller's husband, who passed away on March 30, 1985.

David L. Miller

Vivian E. Miller's son.

Gene Cox

Vivian E. Miller's brother.

Ronald Cox

Vivian E. Miller's brother.

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What’s next

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens in Galesburg.

The takeaway

Vivian E. Miller's life and legacy reflect the values of community and service that have long defined Galesburg, Illinois. Her passing marks the end of an era for a beloved local resident who dedicated herself to caring for others and making a positive impact on her community.