Joe Lester Miller

Joe Lester Miller, age 69, peacefully passed away on Friday, February 14, 2025, at his residence. Born in Reidsville, Georgia, on February 5, 1956, to Artis Carswell Sr. and Idonia Miller, he remained a lifelong resident of Reidsville, Tattnall County, Georgia. Joe was a proud member of the Reidsville High School Class of 1974.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; his sons, Antione Young and Malcolm Williams; and his siblings, Felita Miller, Donnie Miller, and Annie Ruth Costen. Joe dedicated much of his life to working on farms, playing a significant role in the agricultural community. His deep commitment to the land and the people around him was evident in his tireless work ethic. He also contributed his skills while working with Thomas & Betts, Hutto Construction, Bark & Willis Construction, and many years with Bland Farms. He found spiritual fulfillment attending St. Phillips Missionary Church, where he treasured the Word in his heart.

Beyond his work, Joe was known for his warm and giving spirit. He had a deep love for cooking and found great joy in feeding the community. His home was always filled with the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals, which he lovingly prepared for family, friends, and neighbors. His culinary skills were more than just talent; they were his expression of love, bringing people together and creating cherished memories.

Joe deeply cherished his time with his beloved wife of 45 years, Betty Ann Miller. His greatest joy came from spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also enjoyed fishing, farming, and ensuring the "Grands" had a real Christmas tree every year. One of his most treasured traditions was his annual Easter Egg Hunt, an event that brought immense joy to him and the children in the community.

Joe leaves behind precious memories with: His devoted wife: Betty Ann Miller of Reidsville, GA. His biological granddaughter: Tiera Young and great-granddaughter Kairan Young. Three siblings: Rev. Dr. Artis (Janice) Carswell and Van Carswell of Reidsville, GA, and Gracie Williams of Florida. Six children who lovingly called him “Pops”: Delores (Fred) Small, Johnny Williams, Jerry Williams, and Mary Jane Brown, all of Reidsville, GA; Gary (Jenell) Williams of Sharpsburg, GA; and Willie Al Williams of Lyons, GA. Twenty grandchildren he helped raise: Gary Williams Jr. of Swainsboro, GA., JaQuan Williams of Sharpsburg, GA., Jarvis Murphy and Jared Williams both of Glennville, GA., Jordan Tetro of Michigan, Adrian: “Dre” Porter of Atlanta, GA., Devontay: Pig Washington, Ta`Sheika (Kelly) Henry of Raleigh, NC; LaToya Johnson, StarTaveea, Nickey Roberts, DonSheea, Ty`Shea and Ma`Rayah Williams, and KaJock Brown, Kayla Shannon all of Reidsville, GA; Alexis (DeWayne) Martin of Lyons, GA; and KeeParis and Danielle Brown, and Janyia Williams all of Vidalia, GA. Twenty-five great-grandchildren he helped raise, including: Anthony "Whoop" Jinks Jr., Mark and Tamirah Wiliams of Statesboro, GA. DeJahnia "Peaches" Johnson, Alena “Juicy” Jinks, Akeem "Boss" Jinks, Levi and Miracle Johnson, Brodie "Rocky" Bartley, Rashad “Stoody” Brown, Taylynn “Taytay” Braddy, Malik Williams, and Mason Littles, all of Reidsville, GA. Lionel “DJ,” Zireese “Nemo,” and Alex “Quarrie” Scott, KyZir “Kizzy” Martin, all ofLyons, GA. Keeyi, Makee “Parker,” Ahlayzia “Laylay,” and Ahmia “Mia” Brown, KeeParis “Keemoe” and London Johnson, Ailijha and Aizaiyha “Bank” Pender-Brown, all of Vidalia, GA. Three devoted family members that were like sisters to him: Arwilda Mcleod of Vidalia, GA., Joyce Summersett Wright of Reidsville GA., and Wynell Johnson of Atlanta, GA.

Joe’s legacy of hard work, generosity, and love will live on in the hearts of family, friends, and the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

The visitation for Joe Lester Miller will take place on February 21, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Low Country Cremation & Burial.  A funeral service honoring his life will be held the following day, February 22, 2025, at St. Phillips Missionary Baptist Church, beginning at 11:00 AM, with his brother, Rev. Dr. Artis Carswell, Jr. officiating. 

Pallbearers will be Alex Scott, Zireese Scott, Akeem Jinks, Rashad Brown, Aizaiyh Pender Brown, and Malik Williams.

Low Country Cremation and Burial has the honor to serve the Brown family.