ELKHART — Michele Ann "Shelly" Miller, 61, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully following a courageous battle with cancer at the Center for Hospice Care, in Elkhart, at 6:20 a.m. Sunday, May 1.

She was born Nov. 16, 1954, in Utica, N.Y., to the late Wesley and Frances (Intino) Houle, and was the first of six children.

Surviving are her daughter, Maria (Marcus Grays) Miller, her granddaughter, MarChella Miller, and her former spouse, James Miller, all of Elkhart; siblings Renee (Angelo Pedone) Gulisano, Richard (Lola) and Raymond (Deborah) Houle, Denise Luciano and Frances (John) Donato, all of Utica, N.Y.; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and an uncle whom she loved dearly.

She was preceded in death by a son, Dominick Miller and a niece, Sabrina Luciano.

Shelly and her daughter Maria were more than just daughter and mother. They were inseparable best friends as well. And her granddaughter Marchella was the light in her life who always managed to put a smile on Granny's face. She is also survived by her three special friends and caregivers Linda, Ruthie and Diane.

Her family appreciates the efforts and talents of Dr. James Jin, Erin and the oncology, radiation and chemotherapy departments of Elkhart General Hospital

Shelly's life will be celebrated with a viewing at 10 a.m. and a service at 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 4, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church of Elkhart. The Rev. Matthew Coonan will officiate and burial will follow cremation in Rice Cemetery in Elkhart.

Shelly graduated the Thomas R. Proctor High School in New York and then moved to Elkhart shortly after graduation. She spent 12 years with the Elkhart Community School system as bus driver then went on to become an RV transportation driver which allowed her to travel and enjoy the scenery of the country. Her favorite pastimes included visiting casinos and playing bingo.

Memorial donations may be given to her daughter, Maria.

Online condolences may reach the family at www.billingsfuneralhome.com.

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