Barbara Miller
January 02, 2012
Barbara J. Miller, 81, passed away peacefully January 2, 2012. Services will be held on Thursday, January 5, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service and burial at McDivitt Cemetery in Urbandale.
Barbara was born March 14, 1930 in Knoxville, IA to Noel and Lois Frazier. She graduated from Knoxville High School and then from Simpson College with a teaching degree. Barbara married the love of her life, Norman Miller in June of 1951. She taught kindergarten for one year and then became a homemaker when their son was born. Barbara passed through many stages in her life. As a young mother she was known for her creativity and leadership. In her middle years she lost her eye sight but continued to be strong and courageous. Later she cared for her husband when he developed Alzheimer’s. Barbara had a love for her husband and family that was unending. In spite of her many physical challenges, Barbara took all in stride and faced each situation with grace and a strong faith. She was a beautiful person and a loving wife and mother.
Left to cherish her memory are her son, Bruce (Maria) Miller of Iowa City, IA; daughter, Laurie Miller of New York City, NY; grandsons, Nathan (Jamie) Miller of Madison, WI and Braden Miller of Cedar Rapids, IA; granddaughter, Alecia Miller of Iowa City, IA; great-granddaughter, Felise Miller of Madison, WI; and cousin Lois Watt. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.
Memorial contributions may be made to Aldersgate United Methodist Church or Good Samaritan Fund at Wesley Acres. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Catherine Cole-Murphy
01/04/2012
To Laurie and her family my deepest condolences on the loss of your Mother. I am happy my Mother let me know about her passing from the paper today so at least I could be there in spirit.
Your Mother was always full of spunk and vitality despite her loss of eyesight and I know she has been a big influence in your creativity and hope that somehow you can remember she is now with you always.
Much love,
Catherine
Carol Barnes
01/04/2012
Bruce,Maria and Family. May Happy Memories get you through these difficult days.Thinking of you all.Carol Barnes.
Dr. Keith T. Johnson
01/04/2012
I was saddened to learn of the death of Barbara Jean. She was my first girlfriend from Gradeschool into Junior High and we remained good friends as we graduated from Knoxville High in 1948. My thoughts are with her family.