Opal Miller

Opal Lucille Hanna Miller, 100, of McPherson died Wednesday, March 3, 2010, at Sterling House in McPherson.

She was born to Clyde and Nettie Hanna on August 7, 1909, on a farm in western Kansas. She was raised in Cimarron and graduated from Cimarron Consolidated School and the School of Business in Dodge City.

When her first marriage ended, Opal relocated to Santa Fe, New Mexico with her son Arthur. There she worked in the U.S. Public Survey Office and became involved in the political arena. She met and married John E. Miles in 1933 and served as his secretary when he began his campaign for the office of Governor of New Mexico. John Miles was elected in November 1938 and Opal became the 12th First Lady of New Mexico. By the second term in office, personal problems lead to the end of the marriage.

Later, Opal Hanna Miles was united in marriage to Lloyd W. Miller in Cicero, Illinois.

Following Lloyd's tour of duty in the United States Army, they returned as a family to make their home in McPherson. Opal and Lloyd shared a partnership of nearly 60 years before his death on November 16, 2002.

Opal was an active member of the First United Methodist Church and United Methodist Women, Chapter EU of P.E.O., and Domestic Arts Club, and served in leadership roles in each these groups. She also volunteered actively through the years with many agencies, and on behalf of many needs in the community. For years, she enjoyed using her gift of hospitality by serving in the kitchen at the United Methodist Church and she often entertained in her home.

Opal was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd, four brothers, and a sister. Survivors include: her son and his wife, Arthur and Dorothy Miller of McPherson; three grandchildren, Gay Ladwig of Wichita, Kay Davis of Wichita, and Michael Fontaine of Valencia, CA; six great-grandchildren, Jon, Jason, Alicia, Justin, Trey, and Chloe; two great-great-grandchildren, Dylan and Jada; and many dear nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, March 10, at First United Methodist Church in McPherson. Burial will be in McPherson Cemetery. There will be no visitation. Memorials donations are suggested to the First United Methodist Church, McPherson County Humane Society, McPherson Healthcare Foundation, or Hospice & Homecare of Reno County in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Opal Miller please visit our Sympathy Store.