Verna Mae Miller

1931 - 2025

Verna Mae Dekens Miller, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2025, at the age of 93 in San Diego, CA. She was born on September 19, 1931, in Blythe, CA, to Sarhas Dekens and Anna Ruth Kauffman Dekens. She lived a life filled with love, compassion and devotion to family, friends and her community.

Before her marriage to Warren C. Miller in 1954, Verna ventured out of Blythe and attended Sawyer School of Business and Mount Saint Mary's College. While away at school, Verna's father hired Warren C. Miller as his accountant and the rest is history! Together they raised 4 children.

Verna was a remarkable woman, known for her kindness and unwavering support. She dedicated her life to nurturing her family, ensuring that her husband, children and grandchildren always felt loved and encouraged to pursue their dreams. Verna had a passion for preparing home-cooked meals along with freshly baked pies. She actively participated in and shared her extreme organizational talents with those around her. Verna was known for her handwritten notes to thank you for your kindness or just to say hello. She always remembered birthdays and special occasions with a special greeting card.

Verna was devoted to serving the Lord with endless hours in St. Joan of Arc's Parish office. She was also a member of their Alter Society. In the 70's, she served as the parish's CCD Principal. Her warm smile and gentle spirit could light up any room with her unique ability to make everyone feel special, especially as a member of the Beta Omega Chapter of Epsilon Sigma Alpha Sorority. Her contributions made a lasting impact on the community, reflecting her generous heart.

After Warren's retirement in 1985, Warren and Verna moved to Sun City West, AZ. For over 25 years, Verna provided a warm, welcoming household for her six Grandchildren's numerous visits to their home in Arizona. In 2012, Verna and Warren finally moved out of the desert to the San Diego area.

Verna is survived by her children, Anna Cieslinski (Bob), Tom, Cindy Buechele (Walt) and Matt (Lisa Silva); grandchildren, Mark Cieslinski (Dr. Lindsey Nichols), Catherine Laskowski (Kenny), Walter Buechele (Kim), Andrew Buechele, Madison Miller and Hannah Miller.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Warren C. Miller; her parents, Sarhas and Anna Ruth Dekens, along with her siblings, Mary Charboneau, Leanora Milligan, Viola Hamilton and Raymond Dekens.

A Celebration of Verna's Life will be held on August 5, 2025 (Tuesday) at the St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church at 10:00 am. Family and friends are invited to join us in remembering her beautiful spirit and the joy she brought to our lives.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the: Palo Verde Historical Museum and Society at PO Box 2325 , Blythe, CA 92226