Mary Michelle Skinner Miller

When Mary Michelle Miller walked into the room, those in her company felt energy, an enthusiastic spontaneity. This was just one example of who Mary was and how she impacted those around her. Mary was a caring person who always sought out the finest attributes in other people. It was as if Mary wanted to share all of their experiences, revel in their lives and celebrate their discoveries. Mary had boundless enthusiasm that would serve her well throughout her life.

Mary was born on December 27, 1961 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona. She was the daughter of John and Michaelene Skinner. Mary was raised in Phoenix, Arizona with 3 siblings. She had one older brother, John, and two younger sisters, Anne and Lisa. Mary also grew up living across the street from her future husband, Donald Miller. She spent countless hours talking to him about their future life together. This year would have been there 30th anniversary.

Mary was a supportive and creative parent who was willing to provide her family with all sorts of new and interesting experiences. For Mary, parenting was a particularly enjoyable and pleasurable part of her life. Every activity, from chores to bedtime routines, became a game in the Miller home. Mary's skill at understanding her children's feelings, her sensitivity to their needs, and her gift for gentle persuasion enabled her to find novel solutions to any problem or situation that might crop up. She was always there when needed, even if it was just to listen to a bad day. Mary was blessed with three children: one daughter, Angela, and two sons, Donald and Joseph. They were also blessed with one wonderful grandchild, Kiersten.

Throughout her life, Mary was actively involved in community organizations. She was compassionate, accommodating and always willing to help another person. Those who had the opportunity to work with Mary usually agreed that when you were involved in an organization with her, it was as entertaining as anything you could imagine. Throughout her later years, Mary was an active member of the SBAAZ and Birthdays Remembered.

Mary loved traveling and trying new things. She was excited about seeing changing scenery and constantly looking for the enjoyment life could offer. Her favorite vacations included an Alaska cruise with husband and San Diego trip with family. She loved family camping trips and fishing, where she could spend countless hours in the boat with a fishing pole.

She is survived by her husband, Donald Miller, three children, Angela, Donald, and Joseph, and grandchild, Kiersten. Also her aunt, Pearlene Ludolph, brother, John Skinner, and sister, Anne Johnston. Mary's final resting place will be at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona.

There was always a certain beauty and loving nature to Mary. She was a dynamic, expressive person who was forever

looking to celebrate the endless possibilities life had to offer. She had a knack for being creative and witty, and for others, was a joy to be around. Mary was always more than willing to share life’s experiences with her loved ones. She was loved very much and will forever be missed.

Michelle's Service April 9th at 1 pm. The service will be held at Sunland Mortuary in Sun City. We also ask that instead of flowers, to please make a donation to a nonprofit organization that Michelle was proud to be a member. Birthdays Remembered was created to provide birthday gifts to children who are at Phoenix Children's Hospital, Cardon Children's Medical Center, UMOM Family Shelter and House of Refuge. Their goal is to bring some joy into the lives of children who are there on their birthday. Their address is: PO Box 1134, Higley, AZ 85236. If you have any questions.