Lois Lorraine Millard

This public notice honors the passing of Lois Lorraine Millard. Born on June 26th 1932 in Bellingham, Washington, Lois has been a lifetime resident of Whatcom County. Diabetes claimed her life. She lived her last years at Highgate Senior Living Center where she passed away on April 27th 2023 under the care of Hospice. Lois is survived by her three children: Alan Millard, Kay Craiger and Pauline Caffell.

Lois continues to be loved by those who knew her. Her heart and free spirit were matched by a warmth very seldom found in today's society. Her guidance has inspired the lives of others, especially her children.

Alan's testimonial: "My mother told me when I was a boy that a conscience is the highest form of intelligence. I strive to live by that standard as I continually feel my mother's presence in carrying out my life.”

Kay's testimonial: “Mom, your love and guidance made an impact that will last forever. You were always there to answer any questions about life. Thank you for all your efforts teaching me—the spirited, independent and opinionated one. I will miss you dearly. You will forever be with me in my heart. Love you always, Kay.”

Pauline's testimonial: “I am grateful and happy to have a part of my mom’s strength! My mom was a determined lady! She put so much effort into any challenge she was given ! I will miss her greatly!”

Lois Millard was a classy, beautiful lady with a big heart. She always had an open spot at the kitchen table for anyone to have coffee or donuts after they picked up supplies from the Kelly Ridge feed store. Lois and her husband Paul started the feed and cattle business in 1963. Kelly Ridge Farms soon became a busy place after years of hard work and many hours of endless effort. Lois and Paul retired in 1982 and began their snowbird adventures until late 2000 when Lois lost Paul. They were married 52 years.

With her endless energy, Lois began her next life. She continued to go south every year, spending half of the year in Yuma, Arizona and half in Bellingham, Washington. She loved being involved with the rock club. She was secretary of the rock club for several years and involved in the rock hounding adventures which entailed combing through the hills of southern Arizona. She always lived every day to its fullest.

Lois had endless love for her family. Every year she and Paul would have, what they referred to as, Grandpa and Grandma Camp. They had the grandkids for a week of adventures. They were very busy teaching each grandchild to be a strong swimmer, going hiking and putting on plays. (One of them, Melinda, went on to become a swimming champ earning awards, going to state two years in a row.)

Lois is survived by her three children: Alan Millard, Kay Millard Craiger, and Pauline Millard Craiger. She is also survived by her seven grandchildren: Ben Caffell, Crystal Caffell Paterson, Amy Craiger Grissolia, Katie Craiger, Ryan Craiger, Nicky Craiger and Melinda Allen, along with three great grandchildren, Suzzana Caffell, James Caffell and Mia Allen.

Mom, your love and guidance made an impact that will last forever. You were always there to answer any questions about life. Thank you for all your efforts teaching us the right path. We will all miss you dearly. You will forever be in our hearts. Love you always: Alan, Kay and Pauline.

A memorial will be held on Saturday, June 24th at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM, located in the Fairhaven District at 355 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225 Phone: (360) 676-2500

Lois's final resting place will be alongside Paul, her soulmate, to whom she was married for over fifty years before he passed. Both hereafter will be residing at the Foothills' Sunset Vista Cemetery, Yuma, Arizona. Please sign the Book of Memories, light a candle, and leave your condolences for the family at www.JernsFH.com