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Patricia Miller Obituary

Patricia Anne Miller, 79, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away peacefully on the morning of January 5, 2025 after a long illness. Patricia was born in Rock Hill, South Carolina, to David and Sarah (nee Childers) McDonald on August 11, 1945. She graduated from Hiawatha High School in 1963. Patricia attended the University of Kansas (BA ('72) and MA ('79) in Anthropology) and worked there most of her life, retiring in 2006 after 26 years.

Patricia established a clothing boutique in downtown Lawrence called Lepidoptera, where she made dresses and sold fashion accessories. She was a long-time member of Trinity Episcopal Church, the University Women's Club, and Endacott Society. In her later years, she also enjoyed traveling abroad and learning German. She was a lover of music, dance, and history. She especially loved magic and fantasy, amassing an impressive collection of books in those genres. She also loved nature, and was a dedicated champion for peace and justice.

Patricia is survived by her daughter, Amy Miller, and son-in-law, Justin Ward, both of London, England. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Douglas Luther Miller; and brother, Frank Goodwin. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, January 19, 2024, at Trinity Episcopal Church, 1011 Vermont St. Private interment will be in Pioneer Cemetery, Lawrence, KS. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to Greenpeace, Heifer International, or the World Wildlife Fund.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Lawrence Journal-World on Jan. 16, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
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5 Entries

Sarah Parsons

February 11, 2025

Pat served faithfully for many years as an election worker here in Douglas County. With her enthusiasm and reliability, she will certainly be missed. Sending heartfelt sympathy to Amy and all her family.

Brian & Michele Foreman

January 18, 2025

We crossed paths in many ways ... daughters, field trips, gatherings. We were both young mothers in the 70´s and shared delights and concerns. Pat was lovely, intimidating, beautiful, agile, and enthusiastic. Brian and I are so sad about her passing and are really hoping that it was a peaceful and painless event. Amy ...

Rev. Gail Davis

January 16, 2025

Pat and I "grew up" together in a sense as we entered KU the same year, had many of the same friends, attended the same church and, after I moved away after 35 years, we renewed our friendship whenever I returned to visit.
Pat had an amazing intelligent mind. She excelled at whatever she did. Whether it was academics, dance, other artistic expressions, social justice programs, or simply being asked to donate one of her incredibly tasteful dishes to a good case; she was always willing to volunteer. I loved talking with her and I will really miss her sense of humor and her unique laughter. I offer my condolences to her daughter Amy whom she deeply loved and admired.

Mary Ann munsch

January 16, 2025

Amy and family: so sorry to hear this about your mom.
Thinking of you!

Phyllis Farrar

January 15, 2025

From my daughter's high school days, until now, she had a close connection to Pat and her daughter Amy - a very special friendship. Few people are so lucky! In addition, I delighted in nurturing Pat's interests in learning new things - especially as she participated in and supported the German School of Northeast Kansas for all nine years of its existence. Pat was a dedicated student, our volunteer librarian, and eventually my invaluable assistant with the preschool children's class. I cherish many, many memories!

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Memorial Events
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Jan

19

Memorial service

2:00 p.m.

Trinity Episcopal Church

1011 Vermont St.

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