My favorite memory of Aunt Jan was our family reunion trip to a house on the Oregon Coast overlooking the beach years ago. I'm not sure who picked the house but it was well laid out for our family group with an open floor plan that made for enjoyable conversations and good cooking! Three generations of family were able to attend and the view of ...
During college, Jessica and I realized that Jan and my parents were all from Streator, a tiny town in the rust belt of IL. That coincidence still amazes me. Over the years, I spent time with Jan on quite a few occasions, mostly when she visited Jessica in Seattle. She was always warm, kind and brought a spirit of friendship to every interaction...
Jean Braxton How many times have we joined together in gatherings! I always remember being so relieved when Jan arrived, bearing food and fun, giving me confidence that now our party would go well. Jan was there, always knowing what still needed doing, needing no direction, cheerfully circulating with everyone, basically helping me host the occasion. Here we're celebrating Jan's family and friends all being in town at the same time. There were so many other occasions: Christmases, Thanksgivings, June birthday bashes (3 Millers, 5 Braxtons [incl. spouses], several friends), and other gatherings just enjoying good friendship. A generous, loving, reliable friend - 44 years! We miss her so very much. Jean & Lowell Braxton
Linnea Nigro One of my favorite memories of Jan was before Jessica's wedding when a few of us went to get mani-pedis and then out to lunch afterward. Jan was so happy to be there supporting Jessica and spending time with her family and friends, and I enjoyed chatting with her while we waited. This wasn't the first time I spent Jan, though. Years ago, when I was in my 20s, I missed my connecting flight in Salt Lake City and was stranded there for the night. I called Jan for help, even though she barely knew me at the time. She came to the airport and picked me up, brought me back to her place to spend the night, made me feel right at home, and brought me back to the airport the next day. I will never forget her love, kindness, openness, and hospitality in a stressful situation. This was just the kind of woman Jan was! Gone too soon, she will live on in our hearts and memories! I'm so sorry for your loss, Jessica and Jenny!
The first time I met Jan was at Jess’s wedding. I saw this vibrant bubbly lady talking to a small crowd near the barn, and I naturally gravitated towards her. She was so expressive in her manners, and very excited. I knew immediately it’s Jess’s mom. Jan is a special lady and I will remember her vividly!
Jean Braxton Jan was like a “sister” to both of us, and an “aunt” to our children. We met attending the Religious Society of Friends Meeting in Salt Lake City. We immediately discovered ties to the Midwest and Midwestern universities. We had children of similar ages who after 40+ years are still close friends. Our friendship with Jan quickly grew past the initial common dedication to Quaker values. We could talk in depth on a broad variety of subjects. Jan had an unusual ability to analyze the ramifications of political decisions - both proposed and de facto, and we greatly respected this talent. She was our “go to” discussion source at state and national election time. We shared a common bond: the 3 of us spent part of our working careers in State Government. A friendship of 40+ years is a bond to be treasured. She will remain a large influence on our lives long after her passing. Lowell & Jean Braxton
Jessica Miller and Jennifer Mukhtiar Three poems to choose from for reading and remembering Jan. Please share memories here if you feel comfortable.
In Memory of Janice L Miller A pandemic is a terrible time to hold a memorial service. So we will plan something in person for when we can hug again. But since we are grieving now, we would like to do something. Please take time on 11/4/2020 to light a candle and read one of the the poems below and remember our mom. If you wanted to share those memories or any photos here we would very much love to see and hear them.