Janet Claire Miller passed away peacefully April 7 at The Aspens in Burns.

Janet was born Jan. 3, 1931 in Milton-Freewater. She graduated from High School in Clarkston Wash., in 1949. In 1962, she graduated from Lewis Clark State College with a teaching degree and began her short teaching career at the OO (Double O) in a one-room school. In the summer of 1963, she married Don Miller, a local rancher, and retired from teaching in 1964.

When Janet married Don, she entered a world that was new to her. Janet learned to drive a stock truck and other farm equipment, how to help at brandings, sharpen sickle bars during hay season, and much more. She kept the books and was involved in all financial decisions. She would run to town for parts or help in many other ways while still finding time to cook for a crew. Janet may not have learned to drive a team or ride a horse, but she was an important part of the ranch’s success. Through it all, family came first. Don, their family, and the ranch was her life.

Spending time with family filled Janet’s heart. She always took time to teach a granddaughter secrets to making her favorite recipes and help a grandson see himself in a positive light. Janet made her children and grandchildren feel loved and special to her in their own little ways.

Janet is survived by her sister-in-law, Karen Johnson; son, Skip Miller; daughter, Sheri Ebar; son, Gary Miller; stepdaughter, Beverly Fagen; stepdaughter, Donna Smith; stepson, Ron Miller; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews and nieces.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Don; father, Claire Johnson; mother, Cora Johnson; brother, Richard Johnson; brother, Allan Johnson; and stepson, Dan Miller.

A celebration of life is planned for later this year. Donations may be made to Harney County Home Health & Hospice in Janet’s name.