Mary Lou Miller Obituary
Mary Lou was born to Jack and Eva Belcher on September 12, 1933 in Peoria, IL. She was an only child until the age of 9 when her sister Jackie was born, followed 3 years later by her sister, Bonnie. As a child, she spent most of her days with her favorite person in the world, her Uncle Hammie. He taught her important life lessons; like how to win at their favorite card game, Rummy.
When Mary Lou was 9 years old, her family moved to Southern California, where she eventually met the love of her life, Bob Miller. They were married on July 3, 1953 and were together for 54 years until Bob passed away in 2007. Together they raised 3 children; Pamela, Mark and Cheryl. In 1965, the Miller family relocated to Concord, CA, where their children grew up. In 1976, Bob and Mary Lou bought a ranch in Brentwood, CA where they grew alfalfa and raised horses; Snickers, Brandy and Rusty (Mary Lou’s beloved colt). After struggling on the ranch for 7 years, they sold the ranch and moved to Antioch, CA, where Bob & Mary Lou lived for the rest of their lives.
The Miller family enjoyed many years of camping, boating and water skiing, a tradition they carried on with their grandchildren.
Mary Lou was known as Nana to her grandchildren; Jennifer, Tevya, Tiffany, Joshua, Scotty, Kaitlyn, Michael, Austin, Heidi and Shalimar. She was Great Nana to her great-grandchildren; Connor, Tiara, Jack, Kody and Heidi. She dearly loved them all and they loved her.
Mary Lou had many passions including gardening, feeding wild birds, sewing and every kind of needlework you could imagine. You rarely saw her without a project in her hands. Every member of the family will fondly remember the hand-sewn clothes she made for them over the years, especially flannel pajamas. All carrying her personal label, "Made Especially For You, by Mary Lou."
In her later years her passion turned to quilting. As a member of the Delta Quilters Guild, Mary Lou made many quilts for various charities. Many in the family will always hold dear their own beautiful quilt, created by Nana.
Most of all though, she was Mom, Nana, Great Nana and Friend. A loving Mother and the best Nana a grandchild could ever hope for. There was always a fresh supply of smiles, hugs and kisses for all. We will truly miss you.
On May 2, 2020, at 86 years old, Mary Lou succumbed to her biggest fear, Alzheimer’s disease and old age.
Leave a sympathy message to the family on the memorial page of Mary Lou Miller to pay them a last tribute. You may also light a candle in honor of Mary Lou Miller.
