Shirley Ann Miller (nee Cowsert) age 74, a longtime Portage resident passed away Friday, November 17, 2017.  She was born on May 20, 1943 in Harrisburg, Illinois to the late Charles and Ellen Irene Cowsert.  She retired from Willowcreek Middle School where she had worked as a Custodian. Shirley was an active member of Grace Church of the Nazarene in Portage where she served as organist and pianist.  She enjoyed quilting, knitting, and playing the piano and organ.

She is survived by her husband, Claredon Leon Miller of Portage, IN; four children, Sharon (Marvin) McBride, Judy Hendricks, C. James (Connie) Miller,  Brenda (Donald) Farris all of Portage, IN; one sister, Vivian (Lendon Williams) Ross of Portage, IN; grandchildren, Jessica, Felicia, Amanda, Bryan, Monica, and Rebecca, one great-grandchild, Margaret.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Charles Ray Cowsert, one infant brother, sisters, Mary Tilford and Connie Castilleja, and one granddaughter, Julie Ann Miller.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the family would be appreciated.

Visitation is Tuesday, November 21, 2017 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. with a funeral dinner from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. and additional visitation from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Funeral services will follow at 7 p.m. at Grace Church of the Nazarene, 5360 Clem Rd., Portage with Rev. Mark L. Hostetler officiating.  Private burial will be at McCool Cemetery, Portage.  Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel completed arrangements. (219) 762-3013 or www.Reesfuneralhomes.com .