Ursula McDaniel Obituary

Aiken, SC – Visitation for Ursula Margarete Miller, age 80, who entered into rest September 2nd, 2025, will be held on Wednesday evening, September 10th from 4 until 6 at Posey Funeral Directors. Ursula was born February 15, 1945, in Bad Nauheim, Germany and was one of six siblings; being predeceased by both parents, two brothers, and a sister. While still in Germany, Ursula lived with Raymond ("Bunk") and Martha Smith, who were stationed in Germany after World War II. During the day, Ursula worked as a technical drafter and engineer and in the evenings/weekends, cared for the Smiths' two sons. The Smiths sponsored Ursula in emigrating to the United States on December 14, 1963. As she did not speak English yet, Martha assisted her in translation and obtaining her first job at Jone's & Fellas Architects/Engineers in Augusta, GA. In July of 1966, Ursula married Frank J. Miller; later divorcing in December of 1980. Ursula pursued certification as an Architect and on August 3, 1973, she passed the Georgia State Board Exam and became only the seventh female registered as an Architect in Georgia. Ursula always considered Bunk and Martha as her second parents; staying in touch with them throughout the years. She felt she would never be able to thank them enough for all the countless opportunities they presented to her. From 1981 to 1983, Ursula studied to obtain a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration and Economics from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte; graduating Summa Cum Laude and inducted as a member of the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi. From 1970 to 1999, Ursula worked in the construction industry for McDevitt & Street (GA & CA), Kitchell Contractors (AZ) and Rudolf & Sletten (CA), progressing from Project Manager to Preconstruction Services Director. She oversaw major commercial and industrial projects including hospitals, USPS facilities, and office complexes. In 1999, Ursula married Ron McDaniel, and they moved back to Augusta, GA and later to Aiken, SC. Ursula was a daily and active member of the gym's aquatic team and became an avid player of pickleball at O'Dell Weeks Park. Ursula was much loved by family and friends all over the world. By her kindness and generosity, she is surely leaving our planet a much better place to be. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a Memorial contribution to a charity of your choosing.