Dorothy S. Miller
July 10, 1938 - December 12, 2022
Visitation: Sunday, December 18, 2022, 2-5 pm; Devlin Funeral Home of Cranberry
Service: Monday, December 19, 2022, 10 am; Dutilh United Methodist Church
Dorothy S. Miller (Drajica Gruijic)
Age 84 of Zelienople, formerly of Gibsonia, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 12, 2022. Dorothy was born on July 10, 1938, daughter of the late Peter and Mildred (Gruich) Sharatz. Beloved wife of the late Edward M. Miller; loving mother of Thomas P. (Karla) Helisek, JoAnn ( Bill) Wotus, and Mark (Danielle) Helisek; step-mother of Anne Miller; grandmother of Kyle, Jackson, Payton, Reese, Logan, Jennifer, Julia, and Rob; great grandmother of Rowan. Dorothy is also survived by many loving relatives, and friends who will all miss her dearly.
When Dorothy was 11 years old, she boarded a freighter ship, “Serbia”, from her war-torn country of Yugoslavia, on her way to the United States. The 17-day overseas trip started in late January, 1950, before docking, on February 16th, in Philadelphia, PA. In addition to being welcomed by her foster parents, the ever-smiling little girl, who spoke no English, was also met by numerous government officials, newspaper reporters, and celebrities.
She made her home in Monaca (Beaver County), PA, with her foster parents; Mildred and Peter Sharatz. When Dorothy arrived in her new hometown, she and her parents were greeted, and welcomed, by the entire town of Monaca. This was the first time Dorothy ate white bread and the first time she walked on floors with carpet.
After getting accustomed to her new life, Dorothy wanted nothing more than to learn to speak English and to become a United States citizen. That magical event happened on May 1, 1956. Every year, after that date, Dorothy celebrated that day. She was so proud of becoming a U. S. citizen.
Dorothy was a loving mother and grandmother who loved to attend her children’s and grandchildren’s baseball games, wrestling matches, high school band events, soccer matches, and volleyball games.
Family and friends are welcome on Sunday from 2-5 pm at Devlin Funeral Home of Cranberry, 2678 Rochester Road, Cranberry Twp. Funeral Services will be held Monday at 10 am at Dutilh United Methodist Church, with Pastor Tom Parkinson officiating. Family and friends attending Dorothy’s funeral service are asked to gather at Dutilh Monday morning.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in Dorothy’s name to “Lutheran SeniorLife Foundation” 105 Burgess Drive, Zelienople, PA 16063.
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Just found out about Dorothy’s passing. My sympathy goes to all your family. She was the most caring and loving person I ever met. Her religion was so very important to her. She is with her loved ones in heaven now. I love you Dorothy and I will miss you so.. Bless you til we meet again. Loretta
Thom, Karla and Kyle. Very sorry for your loss. Enjoyed seeing her at Kyle’s B.B game. My Love, Prayers and Sympathy are with all of you. Aunt Bonnie