Tressa Ann Miller

Tressa Ann Miller, a beacon of kindness and warmth, passed away on January 13, 2026, in Pensacola, Florida, at the age of 72. Born on August 8, 1953, in Lagrange, Indiana, Tressa cultivated a life filled with love, laughter, and a deep connection to family and friends that will be felt for generations to come.

To all who knew her, Tressa was a source of comfort—a calming presence whose sweet and gentle voice seemed to erase worries and usher in peace. Her laughter, quick and infectious, could fill a room and lift spirits higher than one could imagine. In her laid-back demeanor, she exemplified generosity, always ready to listen with a kind heart and never uttering an unkind word about another soul. Her love for the Lord was profound, leading many within her family towards Christ and the light of salvation.

The moments shared with Tressa were often simple yet profoundly meaningful. She loved nothing more than sitting on her beloved porch, a cigarette in hand, listening to the radio while watching the hummingbirds flit about. Her faithful dogs, especially her cherished Peanut-Butters, were never far from her side, their companionship a source of comfort that brought joy to her days. Tressa had a unique ability to arrange herself in bed without disturbing her furry friends and would have it no other way. She found great pleasure in catching up with her daughter, particularly but not exclusively over crime TV shows or the hilarity that is “90 Day Fiance,” often shaking her head in amused disbelief at life’s absurdities.

Tressa's journey came to an abrupt end after a sudden illness that revealed a perforated bowel, leading to a brave battle against sepsis and multiple organ failure in the Sacred Heart ICU. Surrounded by family, she departed this world peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love and support.

She is survived by her daughter, Mona (Jim) Jellyman, with whom she joyfully lived "down the hill" on the same property in Bratt, Florida. Tressa delighted in the lives of her grandchildren—Amanda (James) Spivey, Morgan (Pablo) Pimienta, and Nicholas Martin (Leah)—and found immense joy in her great-grandchildren: Mason, Benjamin, Abigail, and Natalia. She also leaves behind her nephews, Ed (Deb) Knight, Tim (Stacy) Reed, Boe Reed, and John Lyttaker, and a multitude of beloved great-nieces and nephews.

Tressa's circle of neighbors and friends blossomed into cherished relationships; most notably, she held dear the friendships with neighbors who became friends, Marilyn Peters, Jennifer Hales, Jeremy Puckett. Tressa also loved her "bonus" daughter Sandy Spencer (Elkhart, Indiana).  

Though she is preceded in death by her beloved sister Elaine Reed, sister Darlene Knight, niece Shannon Reed, niece Amy Knight-Lyttaker, her best friend and companion Gail Gunnoe, in-laws Fred and Nettie Gunnoe, and her adored furfriend Butters, Tressa's spirit remains alive in the fond memories of those fortunate enough to have loved her.

In parting, let us remember Tressa Ann Miller not just in her absence but in the vibrant spirit she was—a kind soul. Her legacy of love will forever linger in the hearts of those she has touched, a lasting testament to a life well-lived.