Mary Jane Miller was born at home on October 29, 1943, in Wathena, Kansas, a small farming community in the northeast corner of Kansas. As one of eight children, times were hard and money was tight. Her dad, Tom Eisiminger, worked as a hired hand for many years in local apple orchards and later in the warehouse at Wyeth hardware in St. Joseph, Missouri. Her mom, Maude Eisiminger, as well as raising eight children, worked as a cook in the small Wathena school. Mary was quite a helper as a child as one sister was afflicted with Polio and required special attention. Mary was a good student and became quite a good pianist and vocalist.

After graduation from Wathena High School, she was accepted to Ottawa University in Ottawa, Kansas. She worked for the university to help offset the expense as well as enjoyed a $500 per year scholarship from an unknown Wathena resident. After graduating Ottawa with a Bachelor's degree, she accepted a position teaching physical education in Ellis, Kansas where she taught two years prior to moving to Kansas City and taking a teaching job at Shawnee Mission North High School. Mary met Joel in early 1968 playing volleyball in the evenings at their apartment complex. In early 1969, Joel was transferred by US Steel to Tulsa, Oklahoma. Shortly after the move, Mary and Joel were married and began their 57-year marriage in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Mary and Joel started their family when son Jason arrived in late 1969 followed by son Josh and daughter Sarah Jane arriving over the next ten years. Mary did some substitute teaching early on, but her calling was raising three good kids as well as being a soccer mom of sorts. In addition, she was great at supporting Joel in his business endeavors.

Mary was a devout Christian and a long time member of South Tulsa Baptist Church. She was for many years involved with vacation bible school and various kid's performances at church.

While Mary was not intimidated by any situation or person, she had no enemies and many friends. She was a doer and accomplished much in her 82 years. Mary provided invaluable support to her son and daughter-in-law after the birth of their son with special needs. She was a daily resource for both Joel's mother and aunt who were moved to Tulsa from Jacksonville, Florida. While in Tulsa, they resided at Zarrow Manor where Mary conducted bingo for the residents twice weekly for the past 32 years. Her last day of bingo was July 12, 2026.

Mary was an avid gardener as well as dog mom to many beloved pets over the years who were her constant companions. In retirement, Mary was the first in line when traveling was discussed. With both dear friend Jo Ann Huff, as well as family, she visited Europe several times on river boat cruises as well as trips to the Caribbean. Her favorite position was on a lounge chair on the deck of a cruise ship. Her final cruise ended in Ketchikan, Alaska on July 19, 2026 from sudden cardiac arrest while enjoying special time with her family.

Mary is survived by her husband, Joel Miller, children Jason (Leslie), Josh and Sarah. She is also survived by five grandchildren including Jacob, Dax, Roman, Baron and Eisen.

A visitation will be held for those who wish to attend on Monday, July 27th from 5-8pm at Fitzgerald Funeral Home. No formal services will be held.

In lieu of flowers, Mary had two organizations that she supported and loved to which contributions in Mary's name may be made.

Joys to the World - day care program for young adults with severe disabilities:

Joys to the World

Or mail to:

Joys to the World, Inc.

PO Box 700532

Tulsa, Ok. 74170

Zarrow Pointe Senior Living

Zarrow Pointe

Or Mail to:

Zarrow Pointe

2025 East 71st Street

Tulsa, Ok. 74136