Dawn BonkerBarbara Houck Miller, the wife of Jim Miller, professor emeritus, passed away July 15. She was 81.
Her son Reade Miller described his mother as a devoted family person, school teacher and consummate partner to his father, a long-time professor at Chapman University beloved by generations of alumni.
“She was a support to him in her career,” Reade Miller said. “Whatever he needed to do at the college she would give him the freedom to do that. A lot of women wouldn’t do that.”
Barbara Miller was born in San Pedro, Calif. She was a teacher at Crescent Elementary School in Orange for 20 years. She is survived by her husband, sons Reade of Joshua Tree and Gregg of Orange, and three grandchildren.
Condolences may be sent to 2524 E. Coolidge Ave., Orange, Calif., 92867.
Give my condolences to Jim. He was one of my special friends at the college and he helped many of my players get through their studies.
I started my teaching career with a Chapman Recommended Teaching Credential at West Orange School in Orange in 1958. I taught 2nd grade for 2 years. Barbara taught 1st grade. She had all the children saying “Yes, mam” and No, mam. I ended my teaching career at Crescent Elementary with Barbara. What memories!
Condolences to Jim and family.