Joyce (Patkis) Miller,89, of Higganum, wife of the late James H. Miller, died Friday, August 23, 2024, at Middlesex Hospital surrounded by her loving family.

Joyce was born in New Haven, daughter of the late Edward and Veronica (Kirkiski) Patkis.

She was a devoted wife and mother who loved everyone, she always had a smile and kind word for anyone she met. For years she volunteered at St Peters Church at the Christmas Fairs, teaching catechism, and as a Eucharistic Minister.  Joyce loved to draw and paint as everyone knew by their personalized Christmas cards every year.

Joyce is survived by her sons, Steve and Tony Miller both of Higganum, daughter, Christina Fagan and her husband Ken of Higganum, four grandchildren, Jessica Pelletier her husband Nathan, Kenny Fagan and his wife Anna, Sonya Porter and her husband Spencer and Brandon Miller and his wife Julie, and six great-grandchildren, Tenley Pelletier, Cooper Pellitier, Kenny Fagan, Everleigh Fagan, Elianna Fagan and Sophie Porter.  She was predeceased by her son, Mark Miller and brother, Edward Patkis.

A Funeral Liturgy will be held on Thursday at 11 a.m. at St. Peter Church in Higganum.  Burial will be held at Burr District Cemetery.  Calling hours will be held on Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver St. Middletown.  Those who wish may send memorial contributions to Doctors Without Borders USA 40 Rector Street, 16th Floor New York, NY 10006 Attn: Planned Giving.  To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.