Dorothy Miller

Dorothy Rumsey Miller March 7, 1915 July 8, 2012 Resident of Martinez, CA Dorothy Rumsey Miller, 97 years old, a lifelong resident of Contra Costa County and native of Richmond, CA, died July 8, 2012 after a long struggle with Alzheimer's disease. Born in Richmond, CA, Dorothy was the daughter of Sea Captain John Rumsey and Laura Rumsey. She was a graduate of Richmond High School and attended the University of Pacific. Dorothy was predeceased by her husband, former State Senator George Miller Jr. who died in 1969 and by her sister Laura Carey. Throughout her life Dorothy was an accomplished and active artist. For more than fifty years she painted with her Point Richmond artist group where her passion and love of boats and the water were expressed on her canvases. As an entrepreneur she successfully opened and managed Rumsey's restaurant and later was one of the proprietors of Mama's Mercantile, both in Martinez. Dorothy was an avid reader of all books, including eastern and western spirituality. In her earlier days she volunteered at Loaves and Fishes and Special Olympics held a special place in her heart. As one of the original Women of the Waterfront, a group which helped develop the Martinez Waterfront Park, Dorothy's daily walks brought her great peace and solace throughout her life. Her greatest joys were her children, family, and friends. The Miller home was always a safe haven and a warm gathering place for those young and old seeking her sage advice and loving ways. Through her wonderful wit, eccentricity, humor, counsel, and spirit she was able to share her wisdom and laughter with her children, Laura Miller of Martinez, Gretchen Miller of Cloverdale, Congressman George Miller and his wife, Cynthia Miller of Martinez, and Kat Miller of Mexico. She will also be sorely missed by her four grandsons, George Miller IV (Wendy) of El Dorado Hills, Stephen Miller (Kathleen) of Lafayette, Michael D'Aloisio, and Sam D'Aloisio (Barbara) of San Francisco. Dorothy is survived by ten beautiful great-grandchildren and two wonderful nephews, John Carey and Leo Carey. Her children are very grateful to those who helped care for her these last years, especially Diane Hirano, Gene Shimmel, Edith, Katherine, Vina, Tony, Annie, and all the caregivers at the Carnelian. The family thanks in addition those from Vitas Innovative Hospice Care who were so kind. Any contributions to The or would be much appreciated and per Dorothy's wishes no services will be held. Published in East Bay Times on July 13, 2012

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