Olivette Emily Miller

Olivette Emily Miller (nee Gingras), of Sun City West, Ariz. passed away at age 102 on November 9, 2025. She was born August 20, 1923, in Galesburg, Ill., to George and Ethel Gingras, but moved to and grew up in Bakersfield, Calif. There she met her husband of 57 years, John William (Bill) Miller. They married in 1943, and she enjoyed sharing his 30-year career as a U.S. Navy fighter pilot, during which they were fortunate to enjoy duty stations on both U.S. coasts, as well as in France, Germany and Spain. They traveled extensively throughout Europe, ultimately retired, and lived on the Costa del Sol in Spain for 5 years.
When they returned to the States in 1977, they resided in Marble Falls, Texas, Whidbey Island, Wash. and Banning, Calif.; before their final move to Sun City West in 1991,
all while continuing their lifelong love of traveling and entertaining. Olivette stayed active with golf, swimming and playing bridge, and was a member of the Spanish Club for several years, as well as a volunteer with the SCW Recreation Center for special events. Due to her independence, joie de vivre and active longevity, she was deemed an inspiration by friends and family alike. An avid knitter and crocheter, she was also well known for her sense of humor, keen wit and amazing creativity.
She is survived by her son, Barry Miller (Suzanne) of Fairfield, Calif., daughter, Susan Smuskiewicz of Henderson, Nev., four grand-children, Brent Miller (Danee) of Visalia, Calif., Marc Miller (Charlene) of Woodland, Calif., Ryan Smuskiewicz of Henderson, Nev., and Karen Schoen (Jeremy) of Washoe Valley, Nev., and six great-grandchildren, Jackson and Cooper Miller, and Kensi and Clayton Schoen, Athena Miller Coleman (Johnlee), and Zachary Miller. Olivette was predeceased by her husband Bill, in 2000, and her brother George Gingras, Jr., in 1943.
A celebration of life for Olivette will be held later. In lieu of flowers, donations in Olivette’s name may be made to a charity of your choice.