Hank and Pat Miller
Bob Neuman
Ask this couple what they dislike about SunBird and you will receive a quick and candid answer – nothing! “We like the community, the friendly people, and think Layne is the best manager there is. We hope he never leaves,” said Hank Miller as his wife, Pat, nodded an agreement.
After visiting in SunBird, they purchased a house in 1998. At first, “We never had any idea of buying,” remarked Pat. Now also, Arlene and Jack Cooper, Hank’s sister and brother-in-law, reside here.
Pat and her sister grew up in Charleston, West Virginia, under her mother’s care. “My mother was a nurse who would go into the county and deliver babies,” she recalled. Later, Pat graduated from Charleston University with a BS degree in Music Education, vocal being her preference. Applying her talents, she taught 27 years at Ross and Hamilton, Ohio.
Hank was raised on an Indiana farm in Ripley County. His father not only farmed but was also a school teacher. An athlete in high school, Hank excelled in basketball and track.
Any Mid-Westerner knows that Indiana is basketball. In Hank’s high school days, it was the king of all sports. In 1954, a small, country town sent its team against the Goliath, Muncie Central in the final game of the Indiana High School Basketball Tournament. No one gave Milan a chance, but on a last minute shot by Bobby Plump, Muncie was defeated. Hank’s basketball team competed against Milan during the season. Still today, he counts Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Plump among his friends.
For college, Hank chose Baylor University, chartered in 1845 in Waco and the oldest continuing one in Texas. There, as a “walk on,” he played basketball and ran track. Receiving a BS Degree in Physical Education and History, he began his career coaching varsity track and basketball.
Later he attained his Master’s Degree in Administration to use as both principal and superintendent; 39 years later, he retired.
Hank and Pat became acquainted while teaching in the same school. According to Pat, they would have discussions to determine priorities for practicing her musical programs or his athletic activities.
This year, the couple will celebrate their 52nd wedding anniversary July 20. They raised Betsy, Jeff and Joel who have given them seven grandchildren.
Pat and Hank are active in the SunBird Community Church. Among various duties, he teaches Bible study and sometimes conducts the Sunday service and delivers the message. An important part of Pat’s church life is forming and conducting an excellent choir.
Hank plays a bit of golf. Pat enjoys walking and her singing. Both like reading, music and travel. They have gone to Europe and been around our country. A highlight was a 17 day missionary trip to Japan where they mingled with the friendly Japanese people.
God has indeed showered his blessings on the Miller family.