Jo Ann Jowers Miller

June 29, 1933 - May 11, 2019

Jo Ann Jowers Miller, 85 of Birmingham, AL died peacefully on May 11, 2019 following a brief illness. She was surrounded by her four children and their spouses: Linda, Sue Ann, (Lee) Jeff (Pam), and Becky (Roger) all of Birmingham.

The eldest child of Sam and Agnes Jowers, Jo Ann was born on June 29, 1933.

Her spouse of 64 years, J. O. "Joe" Miller, and her parents all preceded her in death. In addition to her four children, she is survived by her four siblings, Jim Jowers (Donna), Julia Green, Perry Jowers (Charlie), and Sam Jowers (Judy); 11 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.

Jo Ann and Joe were long-time residents of Vestavia Hills, having settled there in 1963 where they raised their children. Their home provided a beacon of love and hospitality for grandchildren and great-grandchildren and extended family throughout the many years of their residency. Jo Ann and Joe lived for their children, grands, and great-grands and they were never happier than when there were family gatherings taking place.

By the age of 27, Jo Ann was a young mother of four and dedicated her life to their upbringing, nurturing and care.

An example of Jo Ann’s devotion and love for her family is illustrated by her 60-year tradition of making each family member a Christmas stocking. And as the family expanded over the years, so did the number of stockings that “Maw Maw” added to the walls of the den; this past Christmas the tally was an impressive 41 stockings!

Jo Ann and Joe’s Christian faith and love for Jesus was the cornerstone of their lives and marriage. For more than 40 years they were active and devoted members of their beloved church home, Lakeside Baptist. They raised their children in the church and were exemplary Christian role models for them.

With a leap of faith they sought God’s guidance in their decision to pursue Joe’s life-long dream of owning his own business.

Jo Ann was instrumental in helping with the development, growth and success of their family-run business which continues to flourish today.

Jo Ann’s legacy is unmeasurable, her influence - far reaching and her life’s accomplishments are many. Despite the physical obstacles and limitations she endured, her perseverance, determination and strong faith always gave her the strength to push forward and to depend on God for direction and guidance.

Her sweet spirit radiated her love of Jesus and her dedication and devotion to her family will live on in the lives of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren for generations to come. We were blessed to call her mother, Maw Maw, friend and sister.