WILMINGTON — The sparkling soul of Madeline May Cheevers Miller, 89, passed to heaven Sunday, April 26, 2020, leaving behind family and friends who are so grateful for the grace, inspiration, humor, courage and love that she shared with them all.
Madeline was born May 7, 1930, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Joseph and Theresa Martin Cheevers, a first-generation American along with her four siblings, sisters, Esther, Cass and Mary, and an infant brother, Joseph. As one by one, her parents and siblings passed, Madeline celebrated their shared life journeys (however brief) by telling funny, poignant stories of life in an Irish neighborhood, the rigors and humor of a Catholic school education, and above all the importance of family — although a vivacious young Madeline had just wanted to hurry up and grow up!
She had a keen sense of appreciation for how lives intersected, and how small acts of kindness resonated and brought greater joy to a complicated world. When she married James Wilbur Miller (deceased) during the heady days of post-World War II, she was overwhelmed and grateful to be accepted into his southern family — even though she was a Yankee!
With a U.S. Navy husband off at sea and two young sons tagging at her heels, Madeline’s life story took a dramatic turn during the polio epidemic in 1952. By sheer force of will, she refused the assistance of an “iron lung” and taught herself to regain the use of her left hand — determined to be able to take care of herself and her children, including her first daughter who was born while she was recovering. In a society where buildings weren’t accessible and telephones were a luxury, life certainly wasn’t easy for Madeline, but her feisty nature and sense of humor were stronger than losing the use of her legs, and she empowered all four of her children to be strong-willed and to live full and meaningful lives. In brief, she inspired everyone, every day.
Always a kind word or a cheerful smile, never complaining, always giving, always ready to laugh, always ready to wrap you in a tight hug…that was Madeline. She loved sunshine and her flowers, visits on her front porch, and help when it was offered, but she always wanted to give more than she received. Even her mail lady and waste collectors were treated to little bags of candy as thanks, and they were touched by her thoughtfulness — just like every stranger who became an instant friend.
At 89 years of age, Madeline was preceded in death by many she loved, and by many whose stories she loved to share, but she is survived by one sister-in-law, Rose Miller White (Melvin); and four beloved children, sons, James D. “Jimmy” Miller (Sandra) and Stephen M. “Steve” Miller (Lassie); daughters, Theresa Miller Kelley (George, deceased) and Lynn Miller Collins (Steve). Madeline also leaves behind two more generations inspired by her beauty and strength, including nine grandchildren, James “Stevie” Miller, Joseph “Joey” Miller (Tina), Jennifer Miller, Lisa Kelley Hollis (Greg), George “Bubba” Kelley Jr., Jessica Miller, Clifton “C.J.” Kelley, Stephanie Collins and Bethany Collins; as well as six great-grandchildren lucky to have been showered with her wisdom, laughter and love. She is also survived by her extended family of nieces and nephews, friends of family and friends of friends, who all thought the world of her.
She will be missed, but never forgotten, as she gifted everyone with her bright, loving light.
Share online condolences with the family at Andrews Mortuary & Crematory.
