News Summary
Residents of Columbia, South Carolina, gathered to honor the life of Miller Shealy, a dedicated family man, community leader, and passionate baseball player. From his early days playing for local teams to serving in the Korean War and leading community initiatives, Miller’s legacy of service and love for family shone through. His final farewell will be held at Dunbar Funeral Home, with the community invited to celebrate his life and contributions.
Columbia, SC Remembers Miller Shealy: A Life of Service, Family, and the Love of Baseball
Residents of Columbia, South Carolina are coming together to celebrate the life of a beloved figure in their community, Miller Shealy. Born into a family with a strong community presence, Miller was the son of Lawrence Eusebius and Mary Esther Williams Shealy. Growing up with his older siblings, Sadie and Buddy, Miller attended Reformation Lutheran Church, a place where his family played a vital role as founding members.
A Budding Baseball Career
Miller graduated from Columbia High School in 1946, where his passion for baseball blossomed. He showcased his talent on the field, playing for the local Legion baseball team. His journey in the sport took him through the minor leagues with teams such as Bristol Twins, Hickory Rebels, Jacksonville Tars, and Knoxville Smokies. The highlight of his early career came in 1948 when he signed a contract with the New York Giants to pitch Class A ball.
Service Before Self
However, Miller’s baseball journey faced an unexpected interruption due to the Korean War. He enlisted in the Marine Corps and underwent rigorous training at Parris Island. By fall 1950, Miller was serving as a sergeant in Korea, acting as a forward observer close to the front lines. His role was critical, as he observed enemy positions to relay artillery strikes. A significant moment came when he experienced a close call with enemy fire—his water bottle took a bullet. After bravely serving his country, he returned home in spring 1953 and rekindled his baseball ambitions with the New York Giants in Danville, Virginia.
A New Chapter in Life
After a brief stint in baseball, Miller’s parents encouraged him to pursue a different path, resulting in a job with a major railroad company. Miller didn’t let go of his passions though, as he met Barbara Jean Myers at their church, where they were both active members. Their love story unfolded despite a rocky start, and they married on November 27, 1954. Together, they built a family, moving into a new home on Arrowwood Road in St. Andrew’s where they lived for 23 years.
A Family Man and Community Leader
Miller’s dedication to his family was evident. He had two sons, Miller Jr. and Trent, who would carry on his legacy. He took pride in his involvement at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, serving on Church Council, teaching Sunday school, and playing a key role in the church’s construction project in 1976. He also chaired the local chapter of Lutheran Men, showcasing a heart for community service.
A Life Beyond Service
In 1977, the Shealy family moved to Irmo, where Miller ventured into business, opening a convenience store and gas station after leaving the service station industry. He later applied his skills working for Dunbar Funeral Home until the age of 69, fulfilling various roles in service to his community.
A Loving Legacy
Miller leaves behind his cherished family, including his sons and four grandchildren—Miller Williams, Chandler, Ella Caroline, and Mary Keenan. He was predeceased by his sister Sadie and brother Buddy. The family is immensely grateful for the care provided by the staff at Laurel Crest Retirement Community and Amedisys Hospice.
Final Farewell
A time for friends and family to gather will be on January 20, 2025, at Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, culminating in a funeral service at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church on January 21. Burial will follow at the church cemetery, where Miller’s contributions to his community will forever be memorialized. Those wishing to honor his memory can make memorial contributions to St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church in lieu of flowers. Memories of Miller can also be shared on the Dunbar Funeral Home website.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Miller Shealy Obituary
- Wikipedia: Korean War
- Legacy: Miller Shealy Obituary
- Google Search: Miller Shealy
- Cremation Society of SC: Linda Porter Miller
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Baseball
- The State: Sports Article
- Google News: Miller Shealy
- Tukios: Miller Shealy Profile Photo
