RIP Deborah J Miller (aka Miller Lau)

[Ian Whates]

Very sad to report that fantasy author Deborah J Miller has passed away. Probably best known for her Talisker books, written under the name of Miller Lau, Debs has been a key member of The Write Fantastic co-operative and was one of the driving forces and founders of the David Gemmell Awards. The Gemmells almost certainly would not have come into being without her efforts and, despite fighting long-term illness, she remained an active part of the Awards' organisation until very recently.

More than any of that, though, Debbie was great company and a true friend; a fabulous person in every regard.

Her daughter, Tiffany, broke the news a few hours ago, saying:

I would like to ask all my friends and family to pause in their day and spend one moment to raise a glass to my mum, Debbie Miller, who passed away peacefully in her sleep yesterday afternoon. Although I was unable to be with her I know that she was not alone, her loving husband, Bill was by her side. I feel devastated thinking of being without her in my life, but am also comforted by the thought of her no longer being in pain. It has been a long fight and she deserves some peace. Thank you all for your support and friendship through this difficult time.x

RIP, Debs. You will be sorely missed. x

 

[Nerds_feather]

Sad news...RIP

 

[Susan Boulton]

Debs was a dear friend. She encouraged me to write, and more importantly submit my work. She dragged me to my first Con in Glasgow and introduced me to people I now consider very good friends. She listened to my worries and always judged my writing with a professional eye. I will so miss her.

 

[Werthead]

I met Deborah twice at the David Gemmell Awards, and corresponded occasionally in the run-up to each award (mainly about tickets and who was going). She was warm, generous, funny and encouraging. I'm sorry that I didn't know her better, and the awards are going to be poorer for her absence in the future.

Condolences to her friends and family.

 

[chopper]

Unfortunately I never had the opportunity to meet or speak with her but I admired everything that she did to set up and grow the Gemmell Awards. I can only add my condolences to the list.