Carol Diane Miller, 55, of Rittman, Ohio, finished her earthly race on Saturday, March 21, 2026, and entered into eternal victory with Jesus after a courageous and grace-filled ten-year journey with cancer. Her life was a testament to unwavering faith, deep love for others, and a servant’s heart that left a lasting imprint on everyone who knew her.
Born on August 31, 1970, in Wooster, Carol was the beloved daughter of Ronald and Joann (Saurer) Christian. She grew up surrounded by family and community, values that would shape her entire life. A proud 1988 graduate of Norwayne High School and the Wayne County Schools Career Center, Carol carried her strong work ethic and compassionate spirit into every role she embraced. On September 30, 1989, she married the love of her life, Michael Ryan Miller. Together, they built a beautiful life grounded in faith, devotion, and partnership. Mike remained faithfully by her side through every season, including her long and courageous health journey.
Carol’s life work was centered around caring for others. She served as a dedicated school aide for Kaden Katanic at Norwayne Schools, working alongside him for 13 years with patience, kindness, and unwavering commitment. Her ability to connect, encourage, and uplift made a profound difference in his life and in the lives of many others who witnessed her compassion in action. For the past six years, Carol served as the secretary at Norwayne High School, where she became a cornerstone of the school community. Students, staff, and families alike knew her as a source of warmth, encouragement, and steady support.
A devoted member of Smithville Apostolic Christian Church, Carol’s faith was the foundation of her life. She lived out the love of Christ daily, not just in words but through her actions—whether through a kind gesture, a listening ear, or a warm smile. She found joy in simple pleasures such as baking, cooking, and her daily walks, but her greatest joy came from her family. Being “Nana” to her grandchildren was one of her most treasured roles, and she poured endless love into every moment spent with them.
Carol is survived by her loving husband, Mike; her children, Amanda (Tyler) Barth of Creston, Brittney (Austin) Hackworth of Creston, and Jeremy (Lindsey) Miller of Rittman; and her cherished grandchildren, Reid and Hallie Hackworth. She also leaves behind her parents, Ronald and Joann Christian; her siblings, Pamela (Marvin) Zollinger, Elaine Russell, Lisa Matie, Deborah (Doug) Rupp, David (Jill) Christian, and Lori (Todd) Pelfrey; her in-laws, Michael and Norene Miller; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who loved her deeply.
A celebration of Carol’s life will be held on Wednesday, March 25th at 4:00 p.m. in the gymnasium of Norwayne High School, with Adam Uhler and Pastor James McComas officiating. She will be laid to rest in the Apostolic Church Cemetery. Friends may call on Tuesday, March 24th from 1:00–3:30 p.m. and 5:30–8:00 p.m. at Murray Funeral Home in Creston.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the “Carol Miller Love Fund” in care of Michael Miller, supporting the Bobcat community and continuing Carol’s legacy of selflessness, compassion, and unwavering love. Her life, marked by faith and kindness, will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.