Devotion

When Dr. Francis L. "Lanny" Greaves, former director of the Memorial Sims Library, was asked to describe Marjorie E. Miller, "devotion" was a repeated theme. "I arrived at Southeastern in 1969 and met Miss Miller," Lanny recalls. "She was head of cataloging of the library and was quite devoted to her parents, friends, Southeastern, the University Library and her sweet canine companion, Prissy. She was also devoted to the First United Methodist Church as well as many more canine pets throughout her life."

Marjorie was assistant librarian and head of the catalog department for more than 30 years before the computer-age. Her work was instrumental to the operations of the library. "Marjorie made the transition to computers quite seamlessly," Lanny says. "She loved her work and she loved the library."

Kay Adams McIntyre, most recent former director of the library, also spoke fondly of Marjorie. "She was my mentor. For many years, she provided leadership, guidance and taught by example. Marjorie was a delightful person and was a strong advocate for the library for many, many years."

Extending Her Support Beyond Her Lifetime

Marjorie established the Marjorie E. Miller Endowment for the Support of the Sims Memorial Library in 1997 and was a loyal foundation contributor. In August 2010, the Southeastern Foundation was a beneficiary of her estate and received more than $80,000 to support the library.

Eric Johnson, associate professor and director of the Sims Memorial Library, says, "Throughout the years everyone on the staff who knew Miss Miller spoke of her devotion and commitment to Southeastern and the Sims Memorial Library. She was very much aware of the educational value of a world-class library and her generous bequest will benefit current and future students and staff long into the future. We are very grateful for her bequest."

Marjorie was recognized in the Friendship Heritage Society this year. The Society honors alumni, faculty and friends who have demonstrated their lasting commitment to Southeastern by making estate or other planned gifts to benefit the University. Thoughtful planned gifts from Society members ensure the continued vitality and development of the University from one generation to the next.