Barbara Miller, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026, in Bryan, Texas, at the age of 86. Born on August 3, 1939, in Olney, Texas, Barbara spent her formative years in Eastland, Texas, where she met and married her high school sweetheart, Sam Miller. They built a wonderful life together in Houston rooted in love, affection and commitment. She was a wonderful wife, mother, and grandmother who exemplified love and support in every aspect of her life.
Barbara valued family and traditions and took great joy in hosting week-long “Gran Camp” and making “Easter Bunny Cakes” with her grandchildren, creating lasting memories filled with laughter and warmth. Her yearly ski trips to Colorado with family were highlights of her calendar, bringing opportunities for adventure and bonding. She loved her sweets to the point she owned an ice cream shop, “Oscars Creamery,” which became a cherished gathering place for family and friends.
With a warm and friendly personality, Barbara had a great sense of humor that brought joy to those around her. She loved to prank her grandchildren on April Fool’s Day, a testament to her playful spirit and contagious laughter that echoed through her home. Her ability to connect with others made her a beloved figure in her community, where she was a long-time member of Houston’s Memorial Drive United Methodist Church, actively participating in the Prober Sunday School Class.
Barbara’s proudest accomplishments surrounded her grandchildren, whom she adored unconditionally. She spent countless hours attending her grandchildren’s sporting events, plays, dances and graduations. She instilled strong family values that translated into joyful gatherings during holidays, where she always prepared a wonderful meal, ensuring generations were gathered around the table.
She is survived by her sons, Sam G. Miller, Jr. and his wife Jane, Steve B. Miller and his wife Glynis, Marc T. Miller and his wife Ida, and her cherished grandchildren, Michael Miller and his wife Clara, Samantha Miller, Chase Miller and his fiancé Lexi, Olivia Miller, and Luke Miller.
Barbara is preceded in death by her husband, Sam, parents, Frank and Nell Hightower, and her sister, Shirley Kelly. Though she will be deeply missed, her loving spirit and the values she imparted on her family will forever be cherished. Barbara Miller’s legacy will live on through the laughter and love she cultivated in her family and community.
A graveside Memorial service will be held Saturday, February 28,2026 at 11:00 AM at the Eastland City Cemetery with a Celebration of Life gathering immediately afterwards at the Connellee Hotel, 209 W Main St, Eastland, Texas.
In honor of those that cared for her, please consider a donation MD Anderson Cancer Center, P.O. Box 4486, Houston, Texas 77210-4486 or to https://www.mdanderson.org/leukemiagiving (please note memorial gifts may be directed to Dr. Prithviraj Bose for Leukemia Research)
