Melissa Catherine "Cathy" Miller

Melissa Catherine “Cathy” Miller, age 67, of Holbrook, Arizona, passed away Sunday, January 16, 2022, in Ottawa following a courageous battle with cancer. Family will meet with friends from 5:30 to 7:30 P.M., Friday, January 21, 2022 at Dengel & Son Mortuary, Ottawa. Cathy was born November 17, 1954, in Ottawa, the daughter of Harlan and Thelma (Bunch) Miller. She lived in Holbrook, Arizona the last 2 years, moving from Ottawa where she lived 3 years prior. Cathy also lived in Albuquerque, New Mexico for many years. Cathy graduated from Ottawa High School with the class of 1972, then attended Emporia State University before graduating from Western State College in Gunnison, Colorado in 1977 earning a Bachelor of Science in Education. She dedicated her life to helping youth believe in themselves and develop their potential. Cathy had a soft spot for those whose paths had been hard and worked hardest for those who had been written off by everyone before her. Her first teaching job was a three-year stint at Holbrook High School. She then attended graduate school at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, working as a graduate assistant with the women’s basketball team. Cathy had the unique ability to break down movement as it happened, providing her an insight into the action on the court or the field not available to most, including many officials. Next, she worked as a teacher for Job Corps, and finally as a special education teacher with the Albuquerque Public Schools. Cathy enjoyed life, including camping, cruises and all things sports, especially Jayhawk’s basketball, the Royals, and the Chiefs. She was preceded in death by her parents and nephew, Tyler Ray Miller. Survivors include her two brothers, Calvin Miller (Kathy) of Ottawa and their daughters, Callie Moore (Jason), and Kassy Moore (Eric); Kenny Miller (Lisa), also of Ottawa, and their children, Andrew and his fiance, Elsie Bones, Addison Miller (Stephanie), Alyssa Crook (Ryan), and Aaron Miller; eleven great-nieces and great-nephews; many aunts, uncles and cousins; and her sweet companion puppy, Meme. The family suggests memorial contributions to Prairie Paws Animal Shelter c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 S. Hickory, Ottawa, Kansas 66067.