Barbara F. Miller

Born in Buffalo, NY, on May 16, 1957, Barbara was a beacon of warmth and kindness throughout her life, leaving an indelible mark on everyone she met. The daughter of Robert and Catherine Rita (Probst) Fritz, Barbara was raised in a loving family in West Seneca. She was predeceased by her parents, her son Ian Robert, and her brother Mark. She is survived by her devoted husband of 35 years, Jerry Miller, her cherished son Alec Miller, and her siblings Robert (Mary) Fritz, Mark’s wife, Barb Fritz, Sue Cuviello (Tony), John Fritz, and in-laws Julie Ball (Ray), As well as nieces and nephews, Mike Cuviello, Carrie Cuviello, Dave Cuviello, Raymond L. Ball, Ellen (Mike) DiBernardo, grand nieces and nephew Alyssa, Stella and Max and numerous cousins.

Barb was a proud graduate of Mt. Mercy Academy, Class of 1975, and went on to earn her Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Buffalo State College in 1980 in Speech Language Pathology. Her commitment to learning continued throughout her career, where she touched the lives of many young people. She began her professional journey as a Speech Language Pathologist at the Language Development Program in Tonawanda, which later became Summit Academy. Barbara's passion for helping children led her to work at ECMC in their Pre-K early intervention program, and later at C-HOPE, a program dedicated to young adults with disabilities. For 35 years, Barb was an active member of the Ebenezer United Church of Christ, finding strength and community in her faith. She was also an avid member of the Southtowns YMCA, enjoying many of the water fitness activities given there. Her adventurous spirit was evident in her hobbies: bicycling, scuba diving, kayaking, and cross-country skiing. Barb had a special passion for music throughout her life. She enjoyed listening to all types of music, especially folk and jazz, singing and playing her guitar. She was a strong supporter of local theater and various music venues. An avid reader, Barb enjoyed reading and was happiest sitting on a screened in porch while on vacation at Lake Chautauqua with a new book. She enjoyed sharing books among her many friends. She was also a long-time blood donor with the Red Cross and donated with Connect Life.

Barb was known as a "kid magnet" for her natural ability to connect with children. Her warmth, openness, and easygoing nature endeared her to everyone she met. She had a unique gift for friendship, making people feel at ease in her presence. She cherished every moment spent with her family and friends. She enjoyed the simple things in life, such as walks in the neighborhood and a night out with good friends. Barb was famous for her chocolate Chip Cookies and Bailey's Truffles, even to the point where her attorney would take the cookies in lieu of payment for his legal work. She loved the local professional sports teams, the Bills and the Sabres, but never got to see her beloved teams cross the finish line.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the many nurses and aides at Mercy Hospital and Roswell for their professionalism and kindness during this trying time. A heartfelt thank you also goes to the staff at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) at the Hillman Center for their compassionate care and assistance during Barbara's final month.

Barbara Fritz Miller's legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to others will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed but loved and remembered forever. Memorial contributions in Barb’s memory may be made to Habitat for Humanity or University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Hillman Center.

Family will be present Wednesday September 16, 2026

from 4-8 at Hoy Funeral Home 3855 Seneca St., West Seneca.

Celebration of Life will be held Friday September 18, 2026 at 10 am at Columns Banquet facility at 2221 Transit Rd. Elma. Flowers gratefully declined.