Lillian E. Miller

Lillian "Lil" Elizabeth Waldron Miller, 100, passed away peacefully on November 20, 2025, with loved ones by her side. Born on June 7, 1925, to George and Cora Waldron, Lillian lived a remarkable century filled with love, faith, and laughter.

On February 8, 1947, Lillian married the love of her life, Kenneth "Ken" Miller, beginning a beautiful partnership that would span decades. After Ken's passing ten years ago, Lillian carried his memory in her heart, and they are now joyfully reunited in heaven.

Lillian was a devoted mother to her four daughters: Janet (Mark), Constance (Glenn), Susan (Kevin) and Peggy (Roger). She raised them with unwavering love in Ohio before Ken's work brought the family to Rockford, Illinois, where they made their forever home.

Lillian welcomed her sons-in-law, Mark (Jan) Schlutz, Glenn (Connie) Schlarb, Kevin (Sue) Fowler, and Roger (Peggy Bergstrom) into the family with open arms and loved them as her own. She treasured the joy and support they brought to her daughters' lives and was grateful for the expanded family they helped create.

A woman of deep Catholic faith, Lillian found strength and comfort in her beliefs throughout her long life. Her faith guided her generous spirit and commitment to family and friends. She dedicated her younger years to supporting her family after her father's passing. She later volunteered at OSF St. Anthony's as a pink lady, always ready to help those she loved in any way possible.

Lillian had an infectious zest for life. She found joy in painting, golfing, gardening, and traveling to new places. She was never one to turn down a sweet treat—her appreciation for life's simple pleasures was one of her many endearing qualities.

Among Lillian's greatest treasures were her grandchildren, whom she supported wholeheartedly in every way: Dan Schlarb, Katie Schlarb, Erin Fowler, Andy (Rhealene) Fowler, Aubrey Adams, Marik (Alyssa) Schultz, Karly, Allee (Kyle), Emma, Hanna, Luke, and Jake Bergstrom. Her pride in each of them was evident to all who knew her.

Lillian was also blessed to know and love her great-grandchildren: Jackson, Ray, Raef, Evan, Mason, Althea, Harrison, and Avi, each of whom brought additional light and joy to her final years.

Lillian will be greatly missed by her four daughters and their spouses, her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who were fortunate enough to know her kind and generous heart. Her legacy of love, faith, and selfless devotion to family will continue to inspire all those whose lives she touched.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Cora Waldron; her loving husband, Ken; and her siblings George, Shirley, and Robert.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to several individuals and groups who provided extraordinary compassion and care for Lil. A special thank you is extended to Lil's devoted caregiver, Magda, whose evening arrival always brought a light to Lil's face. Julie from OSF Hospice, who cared as much for the family as she did for Lil. Lastly, the Siena staff, and the many Visiting Angels who supported Lil and the family with extraordinary compassion and care. They were simply the best people around, showing Lil nothing but respect and kindness that the family will never forget.

A visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, December 12, 2025, at St. Bridget Catholic Church, followed by mass at 11:00 a.m.

St. Bridget Catholic Church is located at 600 Clifford Ave, Loves Park, IL 61111.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the St. Bridget Food Pantry in honor of Lillian.