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Oct. 28, 1940 – Sept. 12, 2024
Roberta Sue (Townsend) Miller, a beacon of love and selflessness, passed away peacefully on Sept. 12, 2024, at the age of 83, in her hometown of Alpena, where she was also born on Oct. 28, 1940, to the late Robert and Everal (Peacock) Villeneuve. Her life was a testament to the power of faith, family, and unwavering kindness.
Roberta's early years in Alpena laid the foundation for a life characterized by devotion to her loved ones and her community. She was a sister to Gary (Barb) Villeneuve, Diana Ford, and Joan Fuller. Her siblings Janice Wright, Jean Fuller, Joanie, Joyce, and Jimmy Villeneuve, as well as her stepmother, Betty Villeneuve, and stepfather, William Miller, preceded her in death.
In 1956, Roberta married her first love, Boyd Townsend, who passed away before her. She later found love again with Bill Szymanski and then with John Miller in 1991, both of whom also preceded her in death. Through these unions, she was blessed with a large and loving family, including her children Kevin (Corrine) Townsend, Brenda Danielson, Kim (Mark) Gilin, Darin Townsend (Julie Bellville), and Tanya (Jim) Schultz. Her role as a mother was one she cherished deeply, and she extended her nurturing spirit to her grandchildren Jushade Townsend (Erin Sutton), Jeremy and Josh Mullins, Lisa (Erin Cavanaugh) Meyer, Boyd Meggert, Brandy (Jeremy) Fuhr, Erich (Stephanie) Meggert, Zachary (Catherine) Gagnon, Chelsea Welch, Brooke (KJ) Stevens, Gary (Rachel) Gilin, Alan (Heather) Townsend, Tara (Chance) Glomski, Emily (Bryer) McGinn, Stephanie (Zach) Dewar, Jamie (Eddie) Bollerud, and Sommer Schultz-Josey. She was also a proud great-grandmother to 23 great-grandchildren and aunt to several nieces and nephews. Roberta was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Jim Danielson, and daughter-in-law, Tami Townsend.
Roberta's life was characterized by her loving nature and her faith-filled spirit. Her interests were a reflection of her love for life and her commitment to the things that mattered most to her. Roberta was an avid gardener, finding joy in the beauty and tranquility of her garden. Her faith was a cornerstone of her existence, and she was actively involved in her church, where she formed many lifelong friendships and served her community with grace and humility.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, Sept. 16, 2024, at 1 p.m. at 4154 Long Rapids Rd. McWilliams Funeral Home has assisted the family.