Ms. Miller My 6th grade teacher

I’m in tears, She (Ms. Miller) meant and means so much to me. I always wondered how she was doing and hoped she was well, she transformed me back into believing in myself and that i was capable of accomplishing whatever i wanted. She told me i would win over the world with my smile and gave me the nickname Garfield. She would make me compete with the best student she had in the class to prove I was just as smart and capable. I asked her why i was in her class and she told me she selected me because she new i would excel after having probably the worst year of my life the previous year. Transferring from a horrible private school where i accumulated 200+ referrals in 5 years and being in an unruly combined class then being placed from the 5th grade into the 1st grade for “discipline reasons”. Thank you and I love you always Ms. Miller!

Laura was born in Richmond, CA, the daughter of the late Senator George and Dorothy Miller and is survived by her brother, Congressman George (Cynthia Miller), her sister, Kate, and pre-deceased by her sister, Gretchen. She leaves behind four nephews, their families, and many friends of old. After graduation from Holy Names High School in Oakland where Laura met her cherished friend, Cynthia Iverson, she entered the convent where she studied, earned her elementary teaching credential, and began her storied career as a caring, devoted teacher. Upon departing the religious life, she continued teaching and guiding ‘her kids’ at Olinda School for many years Laura’s students brought her such joy and fulfillment, as did gardening, colorful decorating, and throwing a great party! Her kindness, generosity, and wise counsel endeared her to so many lifelong friends and ‘though she finally succumbed to Alzheimer’s, her sweet, loving spirit and kindness remained always. A celebration of Laura’s life will be held on March 22, 2 PM, at Zio Fraedo’s, 611 Gregory Ln., Pleasant Hill. Donations in her name may be made to Hospice of the East Bay, UCSF Memory and Aging, Alzheimer’s Association.