Samelia Oneta (Milliken) McIver

Mrs. Samelia M. McIver, age 57 of Sanford, NC passed on Tuesday, May 17, 2022, at her residence.

Obituary

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord,  the righteous judge shall give me at that day… 2 Timothy 4:7-8                                     

Our beautiful mother, Samelia Milliken McIver, sadly passed away May 17, 2022, at her home in Sanford, NC.  She was a wonderful person who was always there when anybody needed her.  Standing at a full 4’9, what she lacked in height was gained through such a fun, sweet, giving spirit, who was definitely the life of the party.

On May 3, 1965, in Pittsboro, NC; Samuel and Margie Milliken were blessed with the wonderful gift that was Samelia, affectionately called and treated as “the baby”.  

Samelia, called “Pootie” by her mother, was a fun-loving child who loved to dance, and whenever there was a family gathering she was the first one on the dance floor, which never changed.  Even though adversities throughout her life, she always enjoyed what she had and made sure everyone had a good time.  Never empty-handed for Christmas and birthdays, giving was truly her love language.  She always stressed the importance of the people you love over money and material things.

Samelia attended Northwood High School where she played the clarinet and afterward completed courses at Central Carolina Community College.  An avid reader, she enjoyed taking classes and learning new things.  Also a hard worker, she spent over 20 years working at UNC-Chapel Hill while taking care of her family.

In recent years our mother truly enjoyed shopping, getting all dolled-up as she referred to herself as “Tha Diva”.  Her hair, make-up, and nails had to be just right.  She loved going out to eat and spending quality time with her family. Seafood was her favorite and she also enjoyed sweet snacks.

Samelia had a strong faith and a profound relationship with God and the Holy Spirit.  She made sure her family knew Jesus and how to lean on Him to get through difficult times such as these.  She enjoyed serving in different ministries at our church, living a life that showed others the love of God.  She told us not to cry for her but to have a party because she was going to be happy and have a good time.  It is hard, but she gave us so many wonderful memories to celebrate a life so well lived. 

She loved and honored her husband for 35 years. We have been blessed to witness the beautiful and authentic love between our parents. Their final embrace was symbolic of the strength of their union.

She is survived by her husband Pilgrim McIver Jr.; her mother, daughters, Kamelia, Shayna, and Brandi; granddaughter, Lia, sisters, Chestine, Marie, and Twyla; and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. 

Mama, we love you forever, and bless God for giving us a better mother than we could have ever prayed for.  You did your job well, rest sweetly with the Lord.

Arrangements are incomplete - Knotts Funeral Home - Sanford, NC