Orpha T. Miller

Orpha T. Miller, 90, died peacefully at her home surrounded by her family, on Sunday, April 13, 2025.

She was born Oct. 6, 1934, in LaGrange, Indiana, to Tobias and Lydia (Miller) Yoder. She married Ora N. Miller on Jan. 17, 1957.

At age 15, Orpha became “mom” to her 13 younger siblings after the tragic death of her mother. By the time she left home, her father had married a widow with six children, and together they had three more, making a household of 23. 

Orpha's desire was for them all to stay together and for the little ones not to be dispersed to other homes. This created a mother bond with her younger siblings that carries on to this day. To her and Ora were born 10 children, two of which preceded her in death.

Orpha was known for her large vegetable garden, pumpkin pie recipe, her homemade ice cream, and widely known for her quilts. Hers was the first quilt sold at the auction in the West Kootenai 1984. She made many quilts throughout the years, with her final quilt being sold in 2022 in Libby. 

Orpha and Ora loved singing. She always stood behind him in all his pursuits and through many trials. She was witty, was an avid reader and was always working. Hers was the deciding vote to come to Montana in 1975. She was a strong pioneering woman of character and faith, which she passed on to her children.

She is survived by husband, Ora; four sons, and four daughters: Arlene (David Chupp) of New York Mills, Minnesota; Ervin (Anna Mary) of Hillsboro, Wisconsin; Lloyd (Mary Etta, dec., Katheryn) of Libby; Leona (Matthew, dec.) Mast of Libby; Elvie (Rebekah) of Libby; Becky (Phillip) Coblentz of Libby; Lorrie (Paul) Mast of Redding, California, and Joas (Priscilla) of Libby; and 46 grandchildren and 85 great-grandchildren.

Orpha was preceded in death by an infant son and a son, Vernon, 8 years old; three brothers and three sisters.

A memorial service was held on Friday, April 18, 2025, at the Eagle Valley Church in Libby.

Arrangements are under the care of Schnackenberg Funeral Home of Libby, Montana. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com.