Joanne M Miller

Joanne M. Miller (nee Timko) passed on October 12, 2026, at the age of 94. Beloved wife of the late Furman; devoted mother of Lori Miller, Karl Miller (Angela-deceased), and Karen Miller; cherished grandmother of Keith Ginley, Brandan Ginley and McKenna Miller; dear sister of Barbara Holland (Jerry)(both deceased), Robert Timko (Elaine)(both deceased), Anthony Timko (deceased), Theresa Boysen (Larry-deceased), Andrew Timko (Carol), and Mary Skowronek (Paul-deceased); loving aunt and friend of many; caring daughter of the late Andrew and Mary Timko.

Joanne was born in McKinleyville, WV on August 20, 1932, the proud daughter of a coal miner. Although she spent most of her life in the Cleveland area, there was always a special place in her heart for West Virginia. While in McKinleyville, Joanne also developed a life-long love of baseball having watched her uncles play after a hard day in the mines. At an early age the family moved to Cleveland, where they lived in several "unique" locations. Joanne's love of baseball turned into a life-long love of the Cleveland Indians. Siblings took turns attending games with her, and it is said that the walls in her room were completely covered with pictures of ballplayers.

As a child in Cleveland, Joanne loved attending school at St. Stephen's. This beautiful church would be the centerpiece of many family weddings, baptisms, first communions and funerals. She left school around 16 years old to work and help support the growing family. After working a number of jobs, Joanne found a position at the Carter Hotel where she would meet Alex Miller. The two would end up dating for almost six years before finally marrying on November 25, 1960. The Millers moved to Lakewood where they proudly raised their family of 3 children. Throughout those years, it was common to see Joanne working in the kitchen while listening to Tribe games on the transistor radio that was never far away. Her baking became legendary, especially her world-famous kolachys which she made by the hundreds during the holidays. She never showed up to a gathering empty handed and everyone knew that if aunt Gee Gee made something, it would be delicious.

After her children had grown, Joanne began working at the Plain Dealer in the ad accounting department. She earned an award for "perfect attendance" each year until she retired at age 72, displaying the work ethic she had her entire life.

During her grandma years, "Bam" instilled her love of Cleveland sports into the grandchildren. They always knew which team was playing by the shirt she was wearing that day. She also introduced them to the wacky world of WWE wrestling. All three grandchildren have fond memories of watching and attending WWE matches with Bam. She knew the lineup and storylines better than almost anyone, and she always had her special favorites. A six-foot cutout of Roman Reigns always stood guard at her house.

Above all Joanne's love for family and friends was unmatched. She always had a willing ear to lend, and her concern for others was genuine. Her love, kindness and sense of humor will be missed dearly by all that knew her.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory are suggested to the Wounded Warrior Project at woundedwarriorproject.org

Mass of Christian Burial 10:00 am Friday, October 30, 2026 at St. Stephen Catholic Church, 1930 W. 54 St., Cleveland, OH 44102 (PLEASE MEET AT CHURCH) Interment Holy Cross Cemetery.

The family will receive friends 4-7 PM THURSDAY (OCTOBER 29th) at the A. RIPEPI AND SONS FUNERAL HOME, 18149 BAGLEY RD., MIDDLEBURG HTS (WEST OF I-71)