Linda Lou Miller

Miller, Linda (Hinrichs) 82, passed away peacefully after complications from a stroke. Loving wife of Buford (Sonny), recently celebrating 64 years of marriage. Linda was born in Sterling, IL, the eldest daughter of William & Doris Hinrichs, attended Freeport High School and lived and worked in Rockford, IL, and Freeport, IL before retiring to Mesa, AZ. Beloved mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Linda was a talented artist, painter, and ceramist. She enjoyed antiquing, gardening, cooking and entertaining family and friends. Her kitchen was never closed, and she was renowned for her scratch cooking capabilities, most especially her prized pies, cakes and fried chicken. Linda worked tirelessly to ensure that her family never went without, and she was most happy when empty plates filled the dining room table.

Linda enjoyed many pursuits…countless summers around a bonfire with friends at Blackhawk Campground (Milton, WI) boating and entertaining at Lake Summerset (Durand, Il). Linda was married at Embury United Methodist Church (Freeport Il), raised her children at Centennial United Methodist (Rockford, Il) attended Durand United Methodist (Durand, Il), and in retirement, served First United Methodist Church (Mesa AZ). An avid reader and lifelong learner, Linda taught Sunday school, was a leader with Brownies and Girl Scouts and helped countless hundreds through her dedicated volunteerism. Linda will be remembered for her generous and giving spirit, witty sense of humor and her loving acceptance of all those that she encountered. She had a special love for those who are in recovery from addiction and helping the homeless.

Linda is survived by her husband Buford (Sonny) Miller, children Kelly (Neil) Rote, Kimberly (Bruce) Tinsley, Kevin (Lisa) Miller and Kurt (Luke) Miller-Mack. Sisters Cynthia (Norman) Regez and Janice Gunnels. Her grandchildren Nicole (Craig) Cummings, Andrea (Mike) Backstrom, Abigail Cummings, great grand-daughters Olivia Cummings, Lilliana Backstrom and numerous nephews and nieces.

We invite you to raise a glass and toast this wonderful woman.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Hospice of the Valley.