Ruby Colene Phelps Miller

Published 10:40 am Thursday, February 27, 2025

Mrs. Ruby Colene Phelps Miller, of Pine Ridge Road, Mocksville, the undisputed queen of poolside relaxation and culinary marvel, passed away at the age of 89.
She leaves behind a life rich in flavor, romance novels, and a healthy dose of good-natured sass. Her legacy is as rich and layered as her famous sourdough rolls, persimmon pudding, and cooked apples made with lots of butter.
Colene’s heart belonged to her beloved husband, Jimmy, with whom she shared many a square dance. Their favorite duet, “Baby’s Got Her Blue Jeans On,” was the soundtrack of their love, often sung by Jimmy to make her smile. They also rode many miles together on a gold Honda 350, with special friends Carl and Libb Grubb.
As a young mother, Colene worked at Stanback in Salisbury, then later retired from Fiber. She enjoyed carpooling with her best friends, Libb Grubb and Nell Lagle, and her brother, Bud.
Her ability to read a Danielle Steele novel with one hand while puffing on a Vantage cigarette with the other was a skill perfected during the smoky haze of the 1970s. “The Young & the Restless” was always on her TV at 12 p.m., followed by poolside lounging–her sport of choice, with a Pepsi-Cola in hand, enjoying the sun while devouring tales of torrid romance. Her passion for soap operas was legendary; she never missed an episode, much to the amusement of her family. She also adored shopping for bargains, frequenting Saturday morning yard sales and the Lexington Flea Market.
As the proud mother of four boys, Rick, Randy, Bob, and Barry, Colene Miller’s life was a whirlwind of chaos and joy. Her family grew to include 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, each one lucky enough to experience her love, wisdom, and occasional playful scolding. Her kitchen was a haven of delectable treats. Her sourdough rolls and vanilla pound cake were legendary, and her homemade strawberry ice cream was the highlight of many summers. Locals would line up for a taste, and many tried (and failed) to replicate her secret recipes. For more than 40 years, Colene hosted an annual Miller family Christmas breakfast in her home. The infamous incident of the green scrambled eggs, which she hilariously blamed on Regina, will be remembered fondly by all. Mrs. Miller was also a talented quilter, hand-sewing many beautiful quilts that are now cherished heirlooms. Each quilt was a testament to her patience, creativity, and love.
Her green thumb was as notable as her culinary skills. Colene’s garden flourished with grapes, corn, beans, peas, tomatoes, squash, and cucumbers…all of which she generously shared. Her grape jelly was a prized possession, often given as a treasured gift. She and Jimmy grew a veritable farmer’s market in their backyard, which she generously shared the fruits (and vegetables) of her labor with anyone fortunate enough to cross her path.
A faithful member of Trinity Baptist Church, Colene’s favorite hymn was “What A Friend We Have In Jesus”, a fitting tribute to the way she lived her life—with kindness, generosity, and an unwavering faith. She found great joy in hearing her favorite granddaughters, Amanda and Candie, play “Make Me a Blessing” on the piano, a request she made frequently and lovingly. Pastor Darrell Cox was a faithful friend who was like a son to Colene. She always enjoyed his company and looked forward to his weekly visits in her home.
In her honor, Colene’s family invites you to grab a Danielle Steele novel and a can of Pepsi, then find a sunny spot by the pool. Enjoy some strawberry ice cream and think of Ma-maw. For those who received one of her quilts, wrap yourself in it and remember the warmth she brought to everyone’s lives. Our mama is able to now rest in peace. May she dance forever with Jimmy, enjoy endless soap operas, and find the best yard sale bargains along the streets paved with gold.
We know you are safe in the arms of Jesus, surrounded by the heavenly aroma of fresh-baked rolls and the gentle hum of your favorite hymns.
In addition to her parents, Lee and Ada Belle Swicegood Phelps, she was preceded in death by: her step mother, Mae Phelps; siblings, Dorothy Tarlton, Geraldine Hanes and Tom Phelps; and sisters and brothers-in-law, Frances Miller, Dicky Miller, Lucy Miller Crotts, Ruth Beck, and Lawrence Miller.
In addition to her sons, grandchildren and great grandchildren, survivors include: siblings, Bud Phelps, J.W. Phelps (Liz), Sylvia Reavis, and Mary Alice Straney (Dennis); brother-in-law, David “Doc” Miller; several nieces and nephews; and special friend, Gail Frye.
A funeral service will be conducted at 3 p.m., Friday, Feb. 28 at Trinity Baptist Church with Dr. Darrell Cox officiating. Interment will follow in Liberty United Methodist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial may be considered to: Mt. Valley Hospice, c/o SECU Hospice Center of Yadkin, 243 N. Lee Ave., Yadkinville, NC 27055; or to Trinity Baptist radio fund, 2722 US 601 S., Mocksville, NC 27028.
Online condolences: www.eatonfuneralservice.com.