Brenda Miller
June 10, 1933-March 20, 2025
Palo Alto, California

Brenda S. Miller, beloved mother, devoted friend, and lifelong learner, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2025, at the age of 91.

Born and raised in Whittier, California, to William and Marion Sorey, Brenda was a bright and curious child who cultivated a love of music, history, and adventure. An accomplished pianist and equestrian in her youth, she carried a deep appreciation for the arts and the natural world throughout her life.

Brenda pursued her education with passion, earning a Bachelor’s degree in History and a Master’s in Education from Stanford University. She began her career as a teacher, sharing her love of learning with young minds before dedicating herself to raising her three sons in Palo Alto, California—Richard (born 1960), William (born 1962), and Charles (born 1967). She was a loving and steadfast presence in their lives, instilling in them the values of thoughtfulness, curiosity, kindness, and perseverance.

Beyond her family, Brenda had a deep love for travel, always eager to explore new places and cultures. She also found great joy in the companionship of dogs – especially her final companion dog, Max who was very well known in her neighborhood and who joined her when she had to move to an Assisted Living facility in 2019. As a resident of Palo Alto for 45 years – from 1974 to 2019 - she greatly cherished the friendships she built over the years with her neighbors and community.

Her warmth, intelligence, and quiet strength will be deeply missed by all who knew her. No services are planned at this time, but her family encourages those who knew her to honor her memory in their own special way. Please consider a donation to a charity of your choice in Brenda’s name.