Obituary of Michele Miller

Michele Lynn Faulkner Miller, born July 13, 1971, in Schenectady, NY, passed away on April 8, 2025, after a brave and graceful battle with cancer.

On August 10, 1997, Michele married her high school sweetheart, Patrick Miller. Together, they built a joyful life in West Orange, NJ, raising two children, Andrew and Morgan, who are both currently attending Virginia Tech. Their family was known for their deep bond, shared laughter, love of adventure, and passion for seeing the world together.

To those who knew her, Michele was unforgettable. She adored her “P,” “Drew,” and “Mo Mo” beyond words. Her sharp wit and love of slightly off-color humor sparked contagious laughter, often setting off giggle fits that drew everyone in. Her spirit of adventure shone brightest during her travels. Whether exploring a new city or planning a detailed itinerary as "Lil Rick", Michele approached each journey with curiosity, courage, and joy—always in search of beauty, discovery, and the perfect meal paired with the perfect wine.

Michele grew up in Canajoharie and Warwick, NY, and graduated from Warwick Valley High School in 1989. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Hope College in Holland, MI, and her Master’s in Social Work from Columbia University. 

Throughout her career, Michele was deeply committed to helping others. She began by leading the Social Work Department at Colter Village Healthcare and Retirement Center in Phoenix, AZ. She later became Director of Social Work at Beth Abraham in New York City, and went on to serve as Associate Director of Quality Improvement, Staff Development, and Compliance at Beacon of Hope House. Most recently, Michele held the position of Senior Vice President for Quality & Compliance at ACMH, Care Management and Housing, where her leadership and compassion left a lasting impact. She was also an active member of Maplewood Presbyterian Church, serving faithfully on several committees.

Michele is survived by her husband, Patrick; her children, Andrew and Morgan; her parents, Rev. Dr. William and Karen Faulkner; her brother, Bill, and sister, Shalyn; her mother-in-law, Julia Miller; a large extended family of sisters- and brothers-in-law, 11 nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless dear friends.

Michele’s legacy is one of love, laughter, strength, and boundless curiosity. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her loved ones will carry her spirit with them in every step they take and every corner of the world they explore. She is now free to soar, off on her next great adventure.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Michele’s name to support Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.  Donate here 

A memorial service to honor and celebrate Michele’s life will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Prospect Presbyterian Church, located at 646 Prospect Street, Maplewood, NJ. Light refreshments will be served following the service in Fellowship Hall.