Denise Mary Miller

June 29, 1951 – February 15, 2025

Denise Mary Miller, 73, a charismatic and adventurous spirit, passed away at her daughter’s home on February 15, 2025. Born on June 29, 1951, in Detroit, Mich., to William Carter Ellixson and Edwardine Louis Kumm, Denise was a beacon of resilience and a source of endless support to those who were fortunate to have shared in her life.

Widowed from her beloved husband Thomas, whom she married on May 7, 1971, Denise was a loving mother to her 10 children and a treasured grandmother to her more than 20 grandchildren, all of whom will miss her dearly. As Albert Schweitzer once said, “The purpose of human life is to serve, and to show compassion and the will to help others.” Denise embodied this spirit in every aspect of her life.

Denise was a woman of many talents and interests. She loved to explore antique stores, hunting for unique treasures and enjoyed the simple pleasures of going out to eat with her family. Denise lived with her son in Cadiz, Ky., and the house was filled with the joyful noise of family gatherings, laughter, and the sound of her grandsons seeking her help with their homework. This empathetic woman took great joy in spending time with her family, whether in Cicero with her daughter Alison Dunder or in Cadiz with her sons. She was a woman of strong faith, a quality that was evident in the life she lived.

Denise’s generosity and caring nature were known to all. She was a steadfast support to her family and friends, always willing to lend a listening ear or offer words of encouragement. Her adventurous spirit led her to create unforgettable memories and instill a love for life in her children and grandchildren. Denise’s love, compassion, and kindness were indeed felt in the hearts of all who knew her.

She is survived by her children, Sean, William, John, Patrick, Susan Roe, Jamie Lineberry, Wanlyn Berich, Christina White, Nicole Dixon, and Alison Dunder; and her cherished grandchildren. Denise was preceded in death by her parents, William Ellixson and Edwardine Kumm; her husband, Thomas Miller; and her daughter, Lori Miller.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, February 24, 2025, at Cicero Cemetery, located on Jackson Street in Cicero.

We encourage friends and family to share photos and memories of Denise on her memorial page at hartleyfuneralhomes.com. Your stories and pictures will serve as a comfort to all who loved her and will help us celebrate her extraordinary life.

Denise’s care has been entrusted to Hartley Funeral Homes, Cicero.