Lawrence Lee "Pete" Milner

     We come together today to celebrate the life of Lawrence Lee "Pete" Milner, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who passed away peacefully at his home in Valley, Alabama, on March 25, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born on January 14, 1934, in Riverview, Alabama, Pete's journey through life was marked by his unwavering kindness, intelligence, and friendly demeanor.

     Pete's life was a testament to the power of love and commitment. He leaves behind a legacy of devotion, exemplified by his 66-year marriage to his beloved wife, Joyce Williams Milner. Together, they raised a family that includes daughters Julie Milner Fowlkes, married to Alan, Tina Milner Coppock, and Christi Milner, who found love with John Martins. His role as a grandfather was one he cherished deeply, especially in his bond with granddaughter Anna Fowlkes Marcheterre and her husband Alec, and the light of his later years, great-granddaughter Aubrey Marcheterre. Pete's extended family was a source of great joy, including his "deer" friend and nephew, Roy Hines, along with numerous cousins and other family members.

     He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Clinton "Skinny" Milner and Irene Milner, whose memories he held close to his heart.

     A man of faith and community, Pete was a member of Fairview Baptist Church, where he shared his wisdom as a Sunday school teacher and, in years past, served with humility as a Deacon. His commitment to service was also evident in his youth, as he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, an early indication of his leadership and dedication to helping others.

     An outdoorsman at heart, Pete found solace and joy in the simplicity of nature. He was an avid deer hunter, a passion that allowed him to connect with the wilderness and his companions. His love for bass fishing and playing golf were more than hobbies; they were ways in which he relaxed and forged lasting friendships. Pete's green thumb was evident in the meticulous care he took of his garden, where he grew a variety of vegetables that were the envy of his neighbors and the pride of his family's kitchen.

     Pete's intellectual pursuits were shared with his family, as he enjoyed the challenge of jigsaw and crossword puzzles. These activities were more than pastimes; they were moments of connection, laughter, and the creation of cherished memories with his wife and daughters.  Pete was a proud graduate of Auburn University.

     As we say goodbye to Lawrence Lee "Pete" Milner, we do so with gratitude for the time we shared with him and the lessons he taught us through his example. His spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his legacy will be carried forward by the family and community he loved so dearly. Pete's journey on this earth has ended, but the impact of his life will resonate for generations to come.

     Funeral services for Pete will be held on Thursday, March 28th, 2024 at 11:00 AM (EDT) at Fairview Baptist Church in Valley. Interment will follow in Fairview Cemetery. The Reverend Carl Benedict will officiate. Pete’s family will receive friends Wednesday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 PM (EDT) at the Johnson Brown-Service Funeral Home in Valley.

     Please visit Pete’s Memorial Tribute page at www.johnsonbrownservicefh.com to leave a kind word for his family, to share a memory of Pete, or to light a Remembrance Candle in his memory.

     Johnson Brown-Service Funeral Home of Valley directing.

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