Terri Miller

Terri Lynn McDonald Miller was born on August 29th to Dennis and Sheenie McDonald. She cherished her siblings, Denise (Jeff) Bichel, Darin (Elisabeth) McDonald, and Matthew (Tina) McDonald as well as her many nieces and nephews.

A 1980 graduate of Winterset High School, she went on to earn her degree in education from the University of Northern Iowa in 1985. She married her soulmate and best friend, Terry Miller, in 1984. Together, they raised their children, Ben, Aly, Jordan, Ross (Brandy), and Abe in a home filled with love, friendship, music, and creativity. Terri took great joy in crafting a warm, magical haven where her children and their friends could grow, feel safe, and simply be themselves.

Terri dedicated her life to loving and helping others, embracing everyone she met with warmth and compassion. A natural encourager, she spent her days uplifting those around her, even while quietly battling cancer with incredible strength and grace. Terri was a talented social worker specializing in child welfare, leaving a lasting, positive impact on countless children and families.

She had a deep love for crafting, watercolor painting, and tending to her elaborate, fairy-tale garden—her sanctuary and place of healing. Above all, Terri loved her family fiercely, protecting them from the darker side of her illness until the very end.

Terri’s legacy of love, strength, and kindness will live on in the many lives she touched. She will be deeply missed.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be directed to the family for a future designation.