Joyce Miller

Joyce Alene Miller of Bakersfield, CA age 87, passed away at her home on Tuesday, February 2, 2016. She was born in Bakersfield, CA on December 14, 1928 to the late Howard E. White and Cleo Alene Brown. Joyce resided in Bakersfield, CA. On August 30, 1947, she wed B.K. Miller Jr. She finished high school through night classes, then went on to college where she majored in Accounting with a minor in Psychology. Joyce moved to Santa Barbara in 1974 then returned to Bakersfield in 1981, where she resided until her passing. She traveled and was very active in the United Way and her wishes are to help animals through the Bakersfield SPCA as well as other nonprofit organizations whose mission is to benefit the welfare of animals. Her dog Molly and cat Millie were a source of great joy.

Joyce was honored by President George W. Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush after serving as a Charter Campaign Committee Member during his presidential campaign. The autographed picture with President George W. Bush and Barbara Bush, which they presented to her, was a cherished moment.

Joyce is survived by her cousins Betty Springer, Jeanne Seal and husband Ray; son Dale Hall and wife Andrea; daughter Linda Elston and husband, Garold; daughter Laura McElwee and husband Darrell; cousin Dorothy Ward and her daughters Dixie Hustead and Donnie Ward, also daughter Dale Martin and husband Dave.

Joyce was preceded in death by her father Howard E. White; mother Cleo Alene Alley and ex-husband B.K. Miller Jr.

Dave Martin will be presiding. Services will be held on Thursday, February 18, 2016 at 2 p.m. in the Chapel at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Mortuary, 9101 Kern Canyon Rd. Bakersfield, CA 93306. Graveside services to immediately follow. For additional information, please contact Hillcrest Memorial Park at 661-366-5766. Joyce requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made at the Bakersfield SPCA, 3000 Gibson St. Bakersfield, CA 93308, 661-323-8353