Darlene Joan Miller

Darlene Joan Miller, age 87, of Goose Creek, South Carolina, peacefully let go of her last breath this side of heaven on June 28, 2026.

Born on August 21, 1938, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Darlene was the daughter of John Arthur Kragness and Arllene Frances Horn Kragness, both of whom preceded her in death.

Darlene’s life was a testament to perseverance, faith, and love. Born during a time when survival was uncertain and facing challenges from an early age, she grew into a strong and determined woman who built a life centered on family and faith. She overcame obstacles that might have discouraged others and embraced each chapter of her life with courage and resilience, although she humbly felt she was not that strong.

She was married to Gary A. Miller Sr., a Navy veteran, until his passing in 1993, and was widowed thereafter. Throughout their years together they had six children, Darlene lovingly maintained and managed a home wherever military life took their family. Adaptable and hardworking, she remarkably held 26+ jobs over the course of her life, working in many different fields while always keeping her family at the center of her priorities.

Darlene was a woman of many interests and talents. She loved fashion and design and had a natural eye for beauty and style. In lieu of getting a degree in Medicine, she was always researching and looking for the best for the health of her children and loved ones. She enjoyed bingo, playing poker with family, and gathering with loved ones whenever she could. Most importantly, she loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and her faith remained an important part of her life.

With Larry P. Buckingham, she shared life together and years of wonderfml memories. They supported each other through the hard times of difficult health challenges, and he was with her till the end. Their bond was one of companionship, care, and steadfast devotion.

She is survived by her children, Kathy Jean Iler and Steven J. Miller; her beloved partner of 29 years, Larry P. Buckingham; her grandchildren, Jack Iler , Janie Iler, Jason Iler. Joseph Iler, Ashley Godich, Sophia and Nelson Miller. Her great grandchildren Jamaal Iler, Victoria Iler, Jalyse Iler, Maya Iler, Jason Iler Jr., Layna and Mason Gotich; her siblings, Jude Richter and Saran Piehl; numerous extended family members and friends whose lives were enriched by her presence.

Darlene was preceded in death by her husband, Gary Arden Miller Sr; parents, John Arthur Kragness and Arllene Frances Horn Kragness; her children, Barbara Suzanne Miller, Richard Dean Miller, Gary A. Miller Jr., Ronald Gene Miller; and her siblings, Robert Kragness, Sharon Stevenson, Jacqueline Riddle, and James Kragness. Also, many aunts and uncles, nieces, and nephews and cousins.

Darlene’s legacy is one of strength, devotion, perseverance, and unconditional love, with the tenacious spirit of the Horn women. She leaves behind generations of family who will carry forward the lessons she taught, the memories she created, and the love she shared so freely. Though her absence leaves a profound void, her faith gives comfort that she has been welcomed into eternal peace.

A memorial service and celebration of Darlene’s life will be held in Minneapolis, Minnesota, around her birthday on August 21, 2026. She will be laid to rest with Gary Arden Miller Sr at Ft. Snelling Cemetery. Further details will be announced at a later date.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at palmettocs.com/.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Palmetto Cremation Society, 5638 N Rhett Ave, North Charleston.