Laurel Ann Miller born April 23, 1963, passed away on Feb. 14, 2025, peacefully at the age of 61 surrounded by family and friends in Loleta, California at 7:30 p.m. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness and cherished memories.
Laurel, a tribal member of the Bear River Band of Rohnerville Rancheria, was preceded in death by grandparents; Fred Marion Miller and Zella Ward: Smith Kendal Brenard and Jessie Dorothy Burtt; by her parents, Fredrick Lonnie Miller and Ilene June (Brenard) Callahan; her sister, Barbara Eileen (Ellis) Salazar and brother, Bert Donald Miller.
Laurel is survived by her daughter, Nachel Black; her grandchildren, Jonothan Briscoe and Alicia Briscoe, and her great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her four siblings, Robert A. Ellis, William Kendal Ellis, Fred Marion Miller and sister, Susan Wagner (Miller), along with numerous nieces and nephews.
She enjoyed outings and camping, going to the beaches and spending time with her family. She enjoyed doing things with her nieces and nephews, she spent time with each one of them doing things they liked to do, so they would know they were special in their own way.
When they were little, she spent many evenings reading scripture to them, and telling them about Jesus and reading many of the stories from the Bible. Many of them remember those moments and the impact it had on them at that age. She also made special family nights when they would come together to play games, watch movies, eat popcorn and ice cream.
Laurel will be remembered for her warmth, compassion and dedication to her family. Her presence brought joy to those who knew her, and her memory will continue to inspire and comfort her loved ones.
We would like to thank Steven Martinez for taking charge of the ceremonial fire.
Special recognition goes out to Rudy Garza, who diligently kept the fire going. We also wish to thank her closest friends, Thomas, Kim, Gena and Amber for all their help throughout the ceremony. We appreciate all you have done. We are grateful to all those who have come through in providing the wood needed to keep the fire going.
We’d like to acknowledge and express our appreciation for all those who have given of their time and themselves to help make this event a success.
Services took place Feb. 26 at Gobles Mortuary, followed by a celebration of Laurel’s life.
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