Alforetta Miller Hughes

Born October 3, 1933, in Ashland, Kentucky to Oscar and Alma Miller. She shared a lifelong bond with her older sister Elinor.

They both graduated from the Ashland Schools and "Alfie" later was employed as a substitute teacher, following some course work taken at West Virginia State College. When Elinor enrolled in Central Statue University, Wilberforce Oh, little sis "Woodie", eventually followed her to Ohio where she enrolled in Wilberforce University in 1970, majoring in Education, not having to do any Co-Op jobs because of previous job experience.

She was the senior (oldest) student graduating in the class of 1971 and upon graduating she was offered a job in the Akron, Ohio public school system. Prior to accepting the job, she received a call regarding the fact that help was needed for a Shorter Hall dorm mother in the fall. She accepted the position and thus was the beginning of her career at Wilberforce. working in that capacity for seven years. She then worked as the Co-Director of Financial Aid, and Director of College Work Study and Student Life, where lifelong friendships were formed amongst the many grateful students. "Miss Hughes"and Moms, (as she was affectionally known) employment continued until retirement in 2001.

After retiring, her commitment to Wilberforce continued as she mentored many students. Volunteering as an usher for campus events including Convocations and Commencements you would see her smiling face. She was proud and an active member of the WU Greene County Alumni Chapter. as well as longtime member and advisor. Other extra activities on campus included: Chartered a new undergraduate chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., Gamma Epsilon, as well as a graduate chapter, XI Beta Zeta, advisor to the Pan Hellenic Council. She received plethora awards, certificates, and plaques recognizing her leadership and dedication.

A woman of great faith, Alforetta was an active and faithful member of United African Methodist Episcopal Church. She served on the Steward Board, sang with the Chorale choir, church clerk, Vice President of the MPJ Lay Organization, Sunday morning breakfast ministry, Church School, Stewardess, Bible study and prayer warrior. Missionary work was her passion, serving on all levels of the work (Local, Conference, District and Connectional) and in September 2007, she became a Life Member in the Connectional Society. This is the highest recognition and honor that you can receive. She assisted Third District WMS members in organizing and coordinating a "Free Student Store" at Wilberforce University which provided personal care items. This became a labor of love for both the University and Missionaries.

Our beloved Alforetta entered eternal rest on Saturday May 16, 2026, blessed with nine (9) plus decades of a faith filled life. She was proceeded in death by her parents: Oscar and Alma Miller; sister: Elinor Miller Tilson; son: Lawerence Taylor Hughes and nephew: Ricky Tillson.

Alforetta will be lovingly remembered by her Sons: Edward Natethaneil, Jr. and Dale Ross Miller, Xenia, Ohio; Niece: Karen Tilson, Sacramento, California, other family members, the United AME church family, the ladies of Zeta Phi Beta sorority and Third District Missionary Society, friends, and colleagues.

Her legacy of love and service will continue to inspire all who knew her. Some of her favorite things were scripture Matthew 6:33 and her colors BLUE and WHITE with a Touch of GREEN and GOLD!!!

Servant of God-Well Done

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:
Ware - Smith Missionary Society
United AME Church
Xenia, OH