Ruby Lorraine Miller

Ruby Lorraine Miller
February 7, 1920-April 18, 2017
At the age of 97, the wise, resilient and joyful Ruby Lorraine Miller passed away at 2AM, Tuesday, April 18, 2017.  As the daughter of Irish immigrants an old Irish custom was followed and a window was opened, candles were lit, and Ruby's peaceful passing was acknowledged.  Ruby was fortunate in life to have married a man who was truly her best friend,  John Francis Miller, a fellow native of Eureka, California and Irish son as well.  The pair genuinely loved, respected and honored each other all the days of their lives. Ruby and John shared a  mutual respect for the great outdoors, national parks, camping, hiking and spending all the time they could seeing and exploring. John passed away in 1993 with the Ruby at his side.
Ruby and John had one son, John Francis Miller II, who tragically died at the age of 15 from complications related to pneumonia. A devastating loss, Ruby decided that she must give back to honor her son, so she returned to school and, at the age of 40, became a licensed vocational nurse. She worked at Del Puerto Hospital for more than 25 years and cared for and witnessed the births, deaths, and lives of many of us who call Patterson our home.
Ruby was active all the days of her life and demonstrated what the nobility of an ordinary life looked like.  Well into her 90's she enjoyed an  early morning walk, looked forward to the days she could mow her lawn or tend the garden and was delighted to be able to drive to  Modesto on Sunday mornings to attend mass with her dear friend, Gus Lombardo. Ruby relished the simple pleasure of lingering over coffee and donuts with friends,  a game of bridge,  a shared book, a story well told, a chat with friends and neighbors.
Ruby asked for a sweet and simple grave side service followed by a gathering of dear friends, favorite foods and shared stories—and so it shall be. In lieu of purchased flowers, a simple bouquet from the garden would be appreciated or a donation to the Salvation Army. The graveside service will be held April 29, 2017 at Patterson District Cemetery at 10:00 AM. If you knew Ruby and are unable to attend, raise a glass with dear friends and family in tribute to Ruby and a life well lived.
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