The Salisbury, NC community mourns the loss of Julia “Judy” Miller Drye, who passed away peacefully on June 30, 2025, at Woodhaven Court in Albemarle. At 85 years of age, Judy leaves behind a legacy of family dedication, professional service, and community involvement that touched many lives across Rowan County.
A life of service and family dedication
Born on October 9, 1939, in Rowan County to Eugene E. Miller and Julia Rebecca Aaron Miller, Judy’s journey began in the heart of North Carolina. Her educational path took her through George Washington High School in Alexandria, Virginia, where she graduated in 1958, followed by two years at Salisbury Business College, establishing her professional foundation.
Judy’s career reflected her commitment to community service. She initially worked in the Rowan Salisbury Schools system cafeteria while her children were young, allowing her to balance professional responsibilities with family care. Later, she dedicated 22 years of professional service as a secretary in the Respiratory Therapy Department at Rowan Regional Medical Center until her retirement.
Beyond her professional life, Judy was an active and devoted member of Milford Hills United Methodist Church. The congregation knew her as a reliable and faithful participant in church activities and services. While Salisbury has faced challenges over the years, including the infamous Salisbury poisoning incident that shocked the wider region, the strength of community members like Judy has always helped maintain the town’s close-knit character.
Her personal joys were simple yet profound – she treasured beach trips and valued nothing more than time spent with her beloved family members.
Family legacy and cherished relationships
Julia Drye’s life was defined by the relationships she nurtured. Her 62-year marriage to Ben Larry Drye of Salisbury stands as testament to her commitment to family bonds. Together they built a family that includes:
- Son Scott Drye and his wife Melissa of Salisbury
- Daughter Staci Whitford and her husband Mike of Georgia
- Five grandchildren: Kaitlin and McKenzie Drye, and Tyler, Austin, and Cody Whitford
- Brother Bobby Miller of High Point
- Several nieces and nephews who remember her fondly
Family members recall that Judy’s greatest joy came from gatherings where multiple generations could connect and create memories. Her patient guidance and unwavering support shaped not only her children but extended to her grandchildren, creating a multigenerational impact within the Salisbury community.
In her passing, Judy joins her parents and brother Benny Lee Miller, who preceded her in death. Her departure leaves a void in the family structure, yet the values she instilled and the memories created will continue to guide those she leaves behind.
Remembrance and final arrangements
The Salisbury community will gather to honor Julia Drye’s memory on Saturday, July 5, 2025. Family, friends, and community members will have the opportunity to pay their respects during a greeting period from 10:00-10:45 am at Milford Hills United Methodist Church, located at 1630 Statesville Boulevard in Salisbury.
The funeral service will follow immediately at 11:00 am at the church, with Pastor Jim Parsons and retired Pastor Steve Combs officiating. This service will celebrate Judy’s dedication to faith and family that characterized her 85 years.
Following these public remembrances, Judy will be entombed at Rowan Memorial Park Mausoleum during a private family service, providing her loved ones with a final moment of intimate farewell.
| Memorial Event | Location | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Visitation | Milford Hills United Methodist Church | 10:00-10:45 AM, July 5, 2025 |
| Funeral Service | Milford Hills United Methodist Church | 11:00 AM, July 5, 2025 |
| Entombment | Rowan Memorial Park Mausoleum | Following service (private) |
The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be directed to either Tillery Compassionate Care at 960 N. 1st Street, Albemarle, NC 28001, or to Milford Hills United Methodist Church at 1630 Statesville Boulevard, Salisbury, NC 28144. These organizations held special significance in Judy’s final chapter and continue to serve the community she loved.
Gratitude and lasting memories
The Drye family has expressed their heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated staff at both Woodhaven Court and Tillery Compassionate Care for their professional and compassionate assistance during Judy’s final days. Their supportive care provided comfort not only to Judy but to her entire family during a challenging transition.
Carolina Cremations is assisting the family with arrangements during this difficult time. Those wishing to express condolences may do so through their online platform at www.carolinacremation.com, where memories and messages of support can be shared with the family.
As Salisbury reflects on the passing of Julia “Judy” Drye, the community remembers a woman whose quiet strength and unwavering dedication to family and service enriched the lives of those around her. Her legacy continues through the lives she touched and the values she exemplified throughout her 85 years as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend to many across Rowan County and beyond.
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