Velma Jean Miller

Jean moved to the Yakima valley in 1973. She worked in banking as a Safety Deposit Custodian for 40 years, retiring in 1987. Jean was a member of the West Valley Nazarene Church. She had a special fondness for animals, especially cats and dogs. Jean housesat for several people, caring for their pets as if they were her own. She also enjoyed crossword puzzles.

To my beautiful mom,

From here, we must go on with you only in our hearts. We still can’t believe you won’t be with us at Christmas for you are such a part of who we are! As your daughter, I am so proud of the strong woman you became. You loved your safe deposit job, your friends and your house-sitting clientele. You loved life! However, NOTHING compared to the love you had for all of us, especially your grandchildren, Prettin Sing and Peeper. They became the center of your existence. I am forever thankful you were involved in their lives on a daily basis – never missing any activity or event in which they were involved. You always walked out beaming just a bit brighter for it was so obvious that your grandkids were the cutest, smartest and most creative! And now, that appears to have transferred to Chloe and Sean! How can mere words on paper even begin to accurately describe the impact you had on so many lives, especially ours? You regaled us for decades with your stories and opinions and only occasionally did you slip when you got frustrated; but the kids kept you honest – “Mom, grandma said the “d” word again!!” We love you and cherish that we were with you the other night when you completed your earthly journey. With us all gathered around your bed, we continued on with you, until we could go no further. In addition to the over-abundance of love you showered us with, your love for God, animals and the Mariners’ was well known by all!

Kristen (Prettin Sing) wrote years ago in an essay about you – “Some important lessons my grandma learned growing up were: To be thankful for what you have; truthful, honest and kind to people; help others whenever you can, and that God loves everybody, so we must too, even though it’s very hard sometimes!” And as Jeff (Peeper) wrote on your last birthday card – “I love you Grandma, thank you for being so loving and caring. You are irreplaceable”. He’s right! We love you – Forever. Until we see you again, we rejoice you are complete in joy and wholeness!! We do not grieve as those who have no hope! Goodnight Mom, I love you!! I’ll make sure all your chicks are home. Dood ♥♥♥

‎"Wherever a beautiful soul has been, a trail of beautiful memories has been left behind."

Jean is survived by her beloved daughter and son-in-law, Julie and Doug Hyatt; grandchildren, Kristen (Chris) Desgroseillier and Jeff (Tracy) Hyatt all of Yakima; great-grandchildren Chloe and Sean Desgroseillier; and many wonderful and precious friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; five brothers; five sisters; and her daughter, Pamela Jean Miller in 1974.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 15, 2011 at West Hills Memorial Park. Those wishing to attend should meet at the cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Jean has requested memorial contributions be made to the Humane Society c/o Langevin-Mussetter Funeral Home, 902 W Yakima Ave, Yakima, WA 98902. Arrangements under the direction of Langevin-Mussetter Funeral Home, Yakima, WA.