Margarita LaGrave Milling

August 3, 1950 - May 5, 2011
Margarita LaGrave Milling

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Margarita LaGrave Milling, Rita, died on May 5th 2011 at age 60 after losing her fight to Pancreatic Cancer. She died at home surrounded by family in Wilmington, NC.

Rita was born August 3rd 1950 in Mobile, Alabama, to Phebe and Dario LaGrave.

She was a loving wife of almost 41 years to Alfred Milling, Fred, to whom she was married on May 22nd 1970 in Mobile. She was a devout mother to Melinda Robbs (wife of Craig), Alfred Jr. (partner to Lee Steakley), Christopher Milling, and Michael Milling (husband to Amy). She considered Mary and Tom White and their children, Greg, Ashley, Courtney and Matt her family as well. She is survived by her mother and sisters, Phebe Nichols and Nancy Kersh, and she was preceded in death by infant son Christopher, and sister, Diana Small. She was the best Nana in the world to Melissa, Krista, and Christopher Milling.

She was General Chairman of the Jayceettes and former Woman of the Year in Mobile, Alabama. Her greatest achievement would be her family.

A Celebration of her life will be conducted Saturday, May 7, 2011, at 3:00 pm at Wilmington Funeral and Cremation Chapel.

The family will receive friends following the service 3:30 pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Foundation.

She was an artist that painted pictures of question, the dictionary of things unknown, the ring man of the circus and the heart of the home. “We love you and you will always be in our hearts, Nana-Rita.”

Please share memories and condolences by clicking on the “Sign Guest Book” tab above.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403; (910)-791-9099


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  • May 08, 2011
    Bix Bechtler says:
    May you find comfort in knowing others care for you.

  • May 06, 2011
    Caleb Wasden says:
    Scooter and Lee, & Family, I was so sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. I know that she was so very dear to each of you, and I hope you find comfort in knowing she is no longer in pain and now in the arms of GOD. My heart is so heavy for you. Please know that each of you are in my thoughts and prayer. I pray GOD grants you peace and comfort. Sending my Love and Thoughts, Caleb

  • May 07, 2011
    Linda Smith says:
    So sorry about your loss - I have so many wonderful memories of working on Jayceette projects together and watching our children growing up together. I loved Rita and she is forever in my heart and memories. She had that wonderful glint in her eye and was so much fun to be around. Fred, look us up the next time you are on Dauphin Island - would love to see you.

  • May 07, 2011
    Joey Davis & Brian Hassler says:
    Dear Scooter & Lee: Our love and prayers are with you both! Scooter our deepest sympathy for the passing of your Mom! I (Joey) left you vm last night. I hope received it! I did not realize your Mother was sick. I know how much you loved and cared for her as well as how proud she is to have a Son like you. Take care and speak soon! -Joey and Brian

  • May 16, 2011
    The Cancel Family says:
    We are thinking of your family during your time of loss. Luedean, Jorge Jr., Stacey and Leane Cancel