Wanda E. Miller

Wanda E. Miller, born July 28, 1936, in Bethany Hospital, Chicago, Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2026, at Lutheran Hospital of Indiana, Fort Wayne, Indiana. Her life, spanning ninety years, was a testament to steadfast faith, selfless service, and unwavering dedication to her community and the Church of the Brethren.

The eldest daughter of Walter Daniel and Leanah Marie (Brubaker) Miller, Wanda’s earliest years were shaped by her parents’ commitment to education and faith. From Chicago, where her father attended Bethany Bible School, to North Manchester and later Plymouth, Indiana, the family moved often in pursuit of service and learning. Wanda and her sister, Carol June, shared in these family journeys, growing closer as they learned not only in classrooms but also in the nurturing embrace of a deeply loving home.

Wanda’s education was marked by dedication and excellence. She attended grade school in various communities throughout Northern and Middle Indiana, including time at the two-room Breaks School near Crawfordsville, where her parents taught and where she was a pupil in her father’s classroom. Wanda then proceeded to Chester High School in North Manchester, as her mother completed her degree. She later graduated from Nappanee High School in 1954. Her academic journey culminated in 1958 when she graduated with distinction from Manchester College, earning a B.S. in Business Education.

Wanda’s career was defined by her commitment to service and administration in educational and faith-based settings. Shortly after college, she worked as a secretary in the Heifer Project Office in North Manchester. In 1959, she embarked upon fifteen years as Secretary to the President of Manchester College, a period during which she supported the mission and programs of the college with diligence and grace.

Ever driven by a spirit of service, Wanda embraced new callings throughout her life. After a unique three-month experience as a study participant at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, she spent a pivotal year in 1975 as a teacher’s aide for Handi-Camp, the Tucson Church of the Brethren-sponsored school for children with severe disabilities. This demonstrated her profound compassion and willingness to make a difference in the lives of others.

On returning to North Manchester in 1976, Wanda continued her legacy of care and service, first as Receptionist and then as Assistant Administrator for Timbercrest Home, roles she fulfilled with dedication and efficiency for nine years. In August 1985, Wanda became Administration Assistant for the District Office of the South/Central Indiana District, Church of the Brethren, devoting twelve years to supporting the District’s mission before retiring in August 1997. She later made Timbercrest Retirement Community her home, moving there in March 2002.

Wanda’s faith and love of music were woven into the fabric of her life. From her youth, she was a committed choir member in high school, church choirs, and served as organist, pianist, accompanist, and Congregational Music Coordinator for the Manchester Church of the Brethren. Her musical talents expertise contributed to countless church boards, music/worship committees, and the S/C Indiana District Board and Ministry Commission. Wanda’s devotion to the “People of the Covenant” touched the lives of many in her faith community.

The loving memory of Wanda Miller will be forever cherished by her nephew, Ryan (Michelle) Slaubaugh, Bloomington, Illinois; great-nephews, Evan and Michael Slaubaugh; and great-nieces, Elizabeth and Katie Nelson. Wanda was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Carol J. Miller; niece and her husband, Kim and Dave Nelson.

A memorial service to honor Wanda’s life will be held Saturday, September 5, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. with prelude beginning at 12:30 p.m. at the Timbercrest Chapel, 2201 East Street, North Manchester, Indiana. The family of Wanda Miller will receive friends after the service.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Wanda Miller, memorial contributions may be made to Timbercrest Charitable Assistance Fund, P.O. Box 501, North Manchester, Indiana 46962.

The family of Wanda Miller has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.