Rebecca Gutta Miller, 61, of Westover, was granted her angel wings on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022. Born on July 21, 1961, in Morgantown. She was the daughter of the late Paul and Elizabeth Bodea Hoclar Gutta.
A Catholic by faith, Rebecca served as organist for St. Ursula’s Roman Catholic Church in Pursglove and as a substitute organist for St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church in Star City from her early teens through her mid-20s.
Rebecca graduated from Morgantown High School and attended West Virginia University, where she majored in music education. With more than 31 years of service, Rebecca retired from West Virginia University as an office administrator.
Over the years, she also worked at the family business, Sycamore Lanes. It was while working there she began dating a childhood acquaintance, Ken, who became her husband, friend and forever love. Becky and Tammy, her best friend and “partner in crime,” met at WVU orientation over 43 years ago and soon unofficially adopted one another as sisters.
Those who came to know Becky soon recognized her kindness, empathy, compassion and generosity. Her contagious smile put everyone at ease, while her genuine interest in people enabled her to build relationships easily and gain friends quickly. Becky was accepting of others, regardless of their beliefs, financial situation, social status, etc. She made people feel special by taking time to listen, letting them know she appreciated them and becoming their cheerleader.
Becky’s love of music continued throughout her life. She enjoyed attending concerts and shows with her husband and friends. A legendary shopper, Becky was known for her ability to find those hard-to-find items for friends — and at a good price. Becky was happiest when traveling. She combined these interests by attending concerts and shopping her way across the country and beyond. While these activities brought her happiness, it was her faith, family, close friends and fur babies that brought her joy. Becky loved animals and had many pets throughout her life, but was especially drawn to cats. When visiting friends, you could always find her with the family cat or dog or with a stray that happened by. In addition to her rescue cats, she helped other animal lovers financially to care for the pets they rescued.
Rebecca is survived by her husband, Kenneth R. Miller II; brother, Paul J. Gutta Jr., of Morgantown; sister, Lisa Owens (Andrew), of Alabama, with whom she was united as an adult and enjoyed a close relationship; half-sister, Tammy Weiss, of Florida; birth mother, Judy Rhodes Shea; best friend whom she considered a sister, Tammy McPherson; and several aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
In addition to her parents, Becky was preceded in death by her son: Nicholas Alexander Miller; and her half-brother: David Shea.
A private visitation was held at McCulla Funeral Home and a Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church. Becky was laid to rest alongside her son at East Oak Grove Cemetery.
In keeping with Becky’s love of animals, those who wish to participate are asked to donate in her memory to: Mountaineer Spay Neuter Assistance Program, P.O. Box 4335, Morgantown, WV 26504; Animal Friends of North Central West Virginia, P.O. Box 1090, Dellslow, WV 26531; or Monongalia County Humane Society, 389 Spruce St., Morgantown, WV 26505.
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