Retirement hasn’t slowed Martha Miller down—in fact, it’s given her purpose. After transitioning out of her position as the Event Scheduling Manager at Georgia Gwinnett College in 2017, Martha has stepped into the role of full-time caregiver for her beloved parents, Jim and Gladys Hoke. Now living together in Del Webb since November 2023, this family shares not only a home but a rich legacy of love, resilience, and community spirit.

Jim recently turned 96, and Gladys will celebrate her 94th birthday in November. The couple—married for 74 years—are looking ahead to a milestone celebration for their 75th anniversary in 2026. Though Jim lives with dementia, his health remains strong, and thanks to the teamwork between Martha and Gladys, he is thriving at home.

Originally from Statesville, North Carolina, the Hokes have a long history rooted in service and tradition. Jim spent his career rising through the ranks of television broadcasting, from technician to Chief Engineer at Harte Hanks Broadcasting in Phoenix, Arizona. Gladys worked as a secretary until Martha was born, then dedicated herself to motherhood. 

Martha herself grew up in Winston-Salem and holds degrees from UMBC and Howard Community College. Martha had always dreamed of living near the beach, having spent countless childhood summers in Myrtle Beach. After retirement, she relocated to Conway. As her parents needed more support, the three built a home together in Del Webb, a place they now proudly call home.

Martha’s own family story extends beyond Conway. Her older son, Chris, is a professional engineer for a solar company in Boston. Chris and his wife Hilary are raising two energetic children, Aden and Luci, who are passionate about sports. They also foster rescue labradors. Her younger son, Stew, works in fine dining in Ashburn, VA, and once hiked the entire Appalachian Trail. Both sons are avid snowboarders and recently spent a month shredding powder in Colorado.

Though her dalmatians, Sally and Gracie, live with their dad in Conway, they’re an essential part of the extended Hoke/Miller family. Gracie even acts as a seeing-eye companion for Sally, who lost her vision to glaucoma.

Every member of the family brings something special. Jim, a 1952 U.S. Marine Corps veteran, was recently honored with a Quilt of Valor—a deeply meaningful moment celebrated at the Del Webb Amenity Center. Known for his craftsmanship, Jim also once built Martha a functioning brass mantel clock, which still ticks in her home. Gladys keeps sharp with jigsaw puzzles, reading, and knitting, while Martha herself is a vibrant force in the performing arts.

You’ll often find Martha performing in local theater productions—she recently starred as Miss Daisy at the Theatre of the Republic—or staying active with fitness classes at the YMCA. She’s also a proud member of Dancin’ B Fit, a dynamic group led by Chel Aguinaldo. In addition, Martha leads a dance ministry at St. Philip Lutheran Church, where her family remains deeply involved in community service.

Philanthropy plays a major role in Martha’s life. She participates in monthly service projects through her church and has volunteered with organizations such as Freedom Readers. Through Webb Cares, bake sales, and food drives, this family continues to foster a spirit of generosity in the neighborhood.

When it’s time to relax, the Hoke/Miller crew enjoys birthday lunches at Damon’s on the beach, breakfast at Theo’s or Harry’s, and sweet treats at Kirk’s or Crazy Mason. Martha loves shopping at Tanger Outlets and plays Jukebox Bingo at Doesn’t Matter Grill with neighbors. She’s also a fan of DJ nights and game nights at the Amenity Center.

Still, among all their memories, one moment stands out: Jim's Quilt of Valor ceremony. Initially hesitant, he was soon enveloped in warmth and gratitude from the community. “A beautiful smile just lit up his face,” Martha recalls, “and I could tell he was very happy to be there and to be honored.”

For the Hoke/Miller family, Del Webb isn’t just a place to live—it’s a place to thrive. Through devotion, service, and a shared love of life, this two-generation household reminds us all of what truly makes a community feel like home.