Patricia Miller Obituary

Patricia "Pat" Miller passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025, at the age of 92. She is survived by her son, Walter Miller and his wife Tami; grandchildren Jacob Miller (Beth), and Whitney Pollard (Andy); great-grandchildren Jack and Madelyn; and sisters Ann and Peggy. Pat was preceded in death by her husband, Loren Ray Miller, with whom she shared a lifetime of adventure and love.

Pat was born September 4th, 1932 in San Jon, New Mexico, to Walter and Lucille Swain. As one of the eldest in a large family, Pat loved sharing stories of childhood adventures and mischief with siblings Mary Lou, Ann, Billie, Rowe, Art, and Peggy. Upon graduating high school, Pat attended nursing school and worked in a doctor's office and then for a brief stint as a surgical nurse. In 1955 she married Loren Ray and they moved to Arcata, California, where they later welcomed their son, Walter. In 1972 they moved to Durango. The pair loved to hunt, fish, and travel with the local Good Sam RV chapter. Upon Loren Ray's retirement they traveled extensively throughout the country and spent 26 winters together in Maui, Hawaii, alongside Pat's sister Ann and her husband.

Pat was a dedicated member of her local P.E.O. chapter, where she devoted her time to supporting women's education and fellowship. Pat was also a gifted seamstress, known especially for her hand-stitched baby blankets and stuffed animals-keepsakes treasured by family and friends. She took great pride in her gardening and canning skills: her pantry shelves were always stocked full of jars of preserved tomatoes, green beans, peaches...whatever she wanted to have "fresh" in the winter months.

Pat loved spending time with her grandchildren and delighted in summer camping trips, lakeside fishing days, and being outdoors with family. She will be remembered in the traditions she passed down, 'Hand and Foot' card games around the dining room table, cuddles under her homemade blankets, and the sun-warmed scent of tomatoes. The family is grateful for the love and support from neighbors and the community.