MILLER Nellie Christena (Howell) - b. February 2, 1914 - d. March 26, 2008

[Marcia Moore]

     Nellie Christena (Howell) Miller, 94, of Grenola, died Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at Pleasant Valley Nursing Center in Sedan. She was born February 2, 1914 near Pueblo, Colorado the daughter of Robert Adam and Christena Elnor (Decker) Howell. She was the middle child of 11 children.
     On August 25, 1947, Nellie was united in marriage to Richard W. Miller, in Moline, KS. They were married for 56 years until his death on August 15, 2004.
     Nellie was a school teacher in Chautauqua and Elk counties for more than 30 years. She enjoyed children from beginning grades through high school. She coached girls' basketball, volleyball, track and softball. After retiring, Nellie was very active with the Grenola Senior Citizens Center, driving, maintaining records and supporting every effort including quilting. Nellie served as Mayor for the city of Grenola for a time after retirement. She continued to be involved in community activities until ill health made her unable.
     Nellie mostly loved children. She also enjoyed crafting and mastered several different mediums. She encouraged having fun in every activity.
     Survivors include: one daughter, Kaye Palenchar, Grenola; one son, Bob Miller, Madison; three grandchildren, Kristi Stubbert, St. Charles, MO; Beth Lawson, Grenola; Zachary Miller, Kansas City.  Three great grandchildren, Sabrina Lawson, Sara Stubbert, and Travis Hubbard; and several niieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Richard, six brothers and four sisters, and a great grandson, Brennan Stubbert.
     Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life Service will be held Monday March 31, 2008 at the Grenola United Methodist Church at 10:30 am, with Chaplain Mike Grahm officiating. The family suggests memorial contribution to the Grenola Senior Center or Harry Hynes Hospice, and can be mailed to Countryside Funeral Home, P.O. Box 247 Fredonia, KS 66736. Online condolences may be left at www.countrysidefh.com. Arrangements are being handled by Zimmerman Funeral Home, Howard.