There was a local holiday — of sorts — celebrated last Thursday Aug. 1. It was Helen Miller Day, and even though it’s an annual event, you’re forgiven if it passed you by unnoticed. I wouldn’t have even known about it myself had I not happened upon the celebration that evening at Coach Sports Bar in the village.
There, gathered mostly in a far corner of the Coach patio, was a boisterous crowd of 30, all friends or family members of the late Helen Miller, who passed away in 2012. They come together every year on the first day of August to laugh, share stories, raise a pint and remember a lady who was a true friend to Webster.
Helen Miller was a long-time Webster resident and very involved in her community. Among other organizations, she belonged to the Iroquois Club, Webster Democratic Party, the Women’s Club of Webster, the Webster Softball League and two golf leagues.
But Helen was also an artist, perhaps best known for works of art which still grace our daily lives here in Webster, including the mural and stained glass windows in the Community Meeting Hall, and more stained glass at the Webster Volunteer Fire Department and Webster Arboretum.
Helen loved Webster so much and was such an important part of our community that in 2009, then-Mayor Jake Swingly proclaimed August 1 to be Helen Miller Day in the Village of Webster. And so it is that every year since 2012, when Helen passed away, her friends and family come together every August 1 to celebrate Helen Miller Day.
Her daughter Diane said the annual event is a celebration “of Mom’s love of people and life.” After all, according to her obituary,
Helen looked for any excuse to get everyone together to have a party. Thank you for teaching us to love with all our hearts, to laugh often to turn the negative to a positive, to enjoy every minute and share it all with family and friends. … Unforgettable is her positive attitude and ability to “Love You More.”
Helen Miller clearly had a kind spirit and a zest for life, setting an example for us all. And you know that if she’s looking down on these annual festivities, she’s smiling and laughing along with everyone else, and her heart is full.
And rest assured, on August 1, 2025, you’ll find me at the Coach, raising a glass to Helen Miller.
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(posted 8/9/2024)
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