Elaine Simmons Miller was born on July 13, 1939 in Brooklyn, New York, to (the late) Rosetta Ross Simmons and Henry S. Simmons -- a World War II- enlisted Army soldier.

Affectionately known as “Boobie Cat,” Elaine was the only child of her parents’ union, and was deeply cherished.  She shared a special bond with her mother, Rosie, and treasured the thoughtful gifts from her father — especially a handmade radio he lovingly created just for her.

Elaine grew up in Brownsville on Stone Avenue (Mother Gaston Boulevard), surrounded by family, music, and community.  As a young girl, she loved singing with her cousins, harmonizing to songs by The Supremes and Mary Wells, even winning local competitions.

She met the love of her life, Charles Miller, at a party through her cousin Geraldine — and it was love at first sight.  Together, they built a beautiful family, raising daughters and later welcoming their son, Charles Maurice Miller, Jr.  They shared more than sixty-five years of marriage, enjoying travel, family gatherings, and special trips to Atlantic City until his passing in 2014.

Elaine was a devoted wife, loving mother, and proud grandmother.  She was an extraordinary cook who made every holiday unforgettable, especially Thanksgiving and New Year’s meals filled with warmth, tradition, and love.

She valued education, and graduated from Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC) with an Associate’s degree in Office Administration.  She worked at BMCC in the Office of Administration as a secretary, and later in the Office of Admissions.  Elaine’s final position was at the World Trade Center where she worked for the Port Authority.  She retired shortly before the 1993 incident.

Elaine was deeply loved by her children: Sherry, Tammy, Crystal, Charles Maurice, Jr., and Shantae.  She also loved learning languages, fashion, and music across generations — from Frank Sinatra to Drake — and she enjoyed cheering for her favorite basketball players -- Ja Morant and Damian Lillard.  On March 29, 2015, she welcomed her great-grandson, Makii Graham, bringing her immense joy.

On Friday, February 6, 2026, Elaine’s life came full circle. She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband, Charles.  She leaves to cherish her memory: her children: Sherry, Tammy, Crystal, Charles Maurice Miller, Jr., and Shantae; seven grandchildren: Jasmine, Kionna, Aaron, Devin, Nadjah, Amir, and Zaire; her great-grandchild  Makii Graham; stepdaughters: Yvette and Brenda; cousins: Joan Rogers, Delores “Fluffy” Jones, Geraldine Mock, Pam Baptiste, and Carol Mock, Sister, Dickey Jones, Alton, Angie, and A.C.; friends: June Watkins, Butch & Bunny, Galishaw, Sandy, Yasming, Jennifer, Jerry, and many others.

Elaine's life was filled with faith, family, laughter, music, and grace.

Her legacy will continue to live on in our hearts forever.
Love Forever … Your Family