Belinda "Lindy" Hurt Milam
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved mom, Belinda “Lindy” Hurt Milam, age 69. She passed away surrounded by family on September 5, 2026, at her home in Salem, Virginia, after a short but courageous battle with cancer.
Belinda was the second of three daughters born to the late Buddy and Peggy Hurt. At the time she was born, the family was stationed in California during Buddy's service in the United States Air Force. His military career later took the family to France, where Belinda began primary school before they eventually relocated to Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in North Carolina.
When Buddy lost his life while serving his country during the Vietnam War, Peggy courageously built a new life for Belinda and her sisters, Arlene Hurt Whitlock (Donald) and Sherry Hurt Swift (Woodie), in Salem, Virginia. There, they were embraced by a large and loving family of grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins whose support meant the world to them. Belinda attended Glenvar High School with the Class of 1975.
Belinda married the love of her life, Richard Milam, in 1982. Together, they shared 40 years of marriage and raised three children: Kevin Hurt (Amy), Lindsay Keister (Derek), and Sarah Milam. She was also a proud "Mimi" to her six grandchildren: William Hurt (Kaitlyn), Nathan Hurt, Charlotte-Jo Finch, Rush Finch, Deacon Finch, and Liana Milam.
Belinda had a remarkable gift for making a house feel like a home. She possessed an incredible green thumb and could bring even the most neglected plant back to life. She also had a keen eye for antiques and carefully collected unique treasures that sparked conversation and curiosity among anyone who visited her home. Every visit would also include a special greeting from her dear pup, Rocket, who was generous with cuddles, but clearly favored Belinda over anyone else.
Belinda was a private person, and when she chose to share something with you, she did so with intention. Those moments reflected the trust and affection she held for the people in her life. She found her greatest peace in the company of her family, and few relationships were more precious to her than the bond she shared with her sisters. There were no sisters closer than "The Hurt Girls."
Her sisters often teased her about her cooking, a joke rooted in several memorable occasions when she may, or may not, have caused her family a bit of dietary distress. Whether out of determination or sheer perseverance, Belinda eventually transformed her culinary reputation and became an excellent cook whose dishes were often requested by family and friends. Her famous Apple Dapple Cake was a particular favorite. She happily baked it for weddings, birthdays, special occasions, or simply because one of her children was craving a slice.
Whether she was tending to a plant, baking a new cake, or hunting for the perfect find at a local antique shop with one of her sisters, Belinda found enjoyment in life’s simple moments. We will forever cherish these simple, yet impactful moments we were able to share with her.
The family will receive friends at Lotz Funeral Home in Salem, Virginia on Friday, September 11, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at 11am in the chapel of Lotz Funeral Home with Reverend Susan Hannah officiating. Following the funeral service, a brief committal service will be held at Sherwood Memorial Park.
