Mollie Bernice Miller

Mollie Bernice "Bernie" Miller, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, trailblazer, and friend, passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by her loved ones, in Ozark, Missouri, on August 24, 2026, at the age of 73. Born in Lawton, Oklahoma, on November 30, 1952, Bernie leaves behind a legacy defined by a beautiful life well lived.

Bernie grew up in Oklahoma and attended Indiahoma High School. A proud member of the Comanche Nation Tribe, she remained deeply connected to her heritage, culture, and community throughout her life. Following her education, she began what would become a distinguished 30-year career with Southwestern Bell. Throughout her three decades of dedicated service, she held multiple positions within the company, ultimately retiring as an Installer-Repair Technician. As one of the few women of her era to break into and excel in a role traditionally held by men, Bernie earned the deep respect of her colleagues and demonstrated her remarkable strength, skill, and determination every day

After retiring from Southwestern Bell, Bernie followed the sun to Islamorada in the Florida Keys. There, she happily spent her retirement years embracing the warmth, enjoying the beautiful waters, and indulging her passion for fishing. She lived in various cities across Florida before ultimately moving to Missouri, where she spent the remainder of her life surrounded by the love of her family.

Bernie was the cherished daughter of the late Mooney Sunrise Chebahtah and Mollie (Godsoe) Chebahtah. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Donald Miller, with whom she is now peacefully reunited. She was also preceded in death by her dear siblings: brothers Gilbert Chebahtah, Thomas Chebahtah, and Ed Chebahtah, and sisters Corrine Rindal and Marilee Chebahtah. Her gentle and nurturing spirit extended deeply to her animals, and she was also preceded in death by her precious cat, Smoky.

She is survived by her loving children, Thomas Lane of Springfield, Missouri, and Annie Lane (Rob Wehner) of Nixa, Missouri, and her beloved bonus child, Becky Petras, who will all forever carry her memory in their hearts. She leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Kyler Smith (son of Annie), Ella Lane (daughter of Thomas), and Nolan Lafferty and Shelby Lafferty (children of Becky), all of whom brought immense pride and light to her life. She is further survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and extended family members who held a special place in her heart, as well as her beloved dog and best friend, Christmas. She is also survived by her brothers, Matthew Chebahtah of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and Joe Chebahtah and his wife Linda of Lawton, Oklahoma. Bernie’s warmth, strength, kindness, and devotion will be deeply missed but never forgotten by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 26th 5-8 p.m. at the Fremont Hills Country Club in Nixa, MO.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your local animal shelter in Bernie's memory.