Carla Juanita Miller

Carla Miller, 67, of Canyon, passed away on Thursday, October 29, 2026.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. on Monday, November 2, 2026, at Boxwell Brothers Funeral Home, 2800 Paramount Blvd.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, in the Boxwell Brothers Ivy Chapel, with Father Scott Raef officiating. Burial will follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery.

Carla was born on January 13, 1959, in Roswell, New Mexico, to Carl Smith and Betty France. She met Les Miller while they were both working at the hospital in Roswell. Their relationship grew into a lifelong love and friendship. They married on December 27, 1980, in Roswell, New Mexico, and continued their education at Eastern New Mexico University, where Carla earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees in education. Throughout their 46 years together, Les was not only her husband but also her best friend. Together, they built a life centered around family, love, and the people who meant the most to them.

Carla dedicated 32 years of her life to teaching in Dimmitt, Texas, before retiring. Although she officially retired after 32 years of service, Carla was a lifelong educator who never truly stopped being a teacher. She loved each and every one of her students and was the kind of teacher who genuinely cared. Teaching was more than a career to Carla; it was a calling and a part of who she was. Her influence reached far beyond the classroom, and the love she had for her students will remain a part of her legacy.

Of all the titles Carla held, however, her favorite was undoubtedly Grandma. Her grandchildren, Maggie and Cragar Miller, were the absolute loves of her life. Being their grandmother was her greatest joy. Anyone who knew Carla likely heard a story or two about her grandchildren and the latest things they were doing. She was immensely proud of them, and they brought her more happiness than words could ever express.

Carla showed her love in many ways, but one of her favorite ways was through cooking for the people she loved. Thanksgiving was a particularly special time for her and a cherished family tradition. She loved preparing the meal and bringing everyone together around the table to share food, laughter, and time with one another. For Carla, it was never just about the meal; it was about having her family together. Those Thanksgiving gatherings and the memories made around her table will be treasured by her family for years to come.

Carla also enjoyed going to movies, musicals, and concerts with her daughter, Jill. She treasured the time they spent together and loved making memories while sharing experiences and enjoying the things they both loved. These outings were another special way Carla showed how much family meant to her.

Carla was also a devoted sports fan, especially when it came to the teams her son coached, both past and present. She faithfully followed each team and cheered them on every step of the way. Win or lose, she was always their biggest supporter and never missed an opportunity to show her love and encouragement.

Those who knew Carla would agree that she didn't just love people—she loved BIG. Whether you were immediate family, extended family, a friend, or someone who simply crossed her path, Carla had a way of making you feel loved and genuinely cared for. Her heart was generous, her love was genuine, and she made the people in her life feel special. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, dedication, and countless memories that will be cherished by all who knew her.

Carla was preceded in death by her father, Carl Smith; her mother, Betty Beagles; and her brother, Eddie Paul Beagles.

She is survived by her husband of 46 years, Les Miller, of Canyon; her son, Ryan Miller, and wife, Crystal, of Levelland; her daughter, Jill Miller, of Amarillo; and her beloved grandchildren, Maggie and Cragar Miller, of Levelland. She is also survived by her father, Eddie Beagles, of Alamogordo, New Mexico; her brother, Jerry Smith, of Roswell, New Mexico; her nephew, Robert Miller, and wife, Lydia, and their children, Julian and Jace, of Fort Worth; as well as several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Ronald McDonald House of Amarillo in Carla’s name.