HARTFORD — Gloria Jean Miller, 66, of Decatur, passed away suddenly on Friday, Oct. 8, 2010, at home.

Gloria was born Jan. 28, 1944, in Hayti, Mo., the daughter of Melton and Hazel (Murphy) Cole, both of whom precede her in passing. She was also preceded by her stepfather, Howard Ward, who raised her as his own.

Gloria was a graduate of Hartford High School. She was a deputy with the Cass County Sheriff’s Office, worked as a security guard with the Cook Nuclear Plant and at Midwest Fastener Co. for 10 years.

In her spare time she enjoyed playing cards, gambling and doing all kinds of crossword puzzles.

Gloria was a loving mother to her children, Edwin (Brenda) Hollenbeck of Cassopolis, Gary Hollenbeck of Dowagiac, Melissa Goss of Hartford and Frank (Tammy) Miller of Decatur. Her most precious times were spent with her grandchildren: Alisha, Devin, Heather, Kara Beth, Jordan, Riley, Shelby and Mason; and her three great-grandchildren.

Gloria is also survived by: two brothers, Ray (Beverly) Cole of St. Joseph and Steve (Bernadette) Cole of Traverse City; and three sisters, Sue (Mike) Duffy of Benton Harbor, Lynne (Tim) Melvin of Vicksburg and Darlene (James) Henderson of Hartford.

Her family will welcome friends on Tuesday, Oct. 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service to honor Gloria’s memory will commence at 10 a.m. Wednesday Oct. 13, at the funeral home.

Gloria will be laid to rest in Keeler Cemetery.

Those wishing to make a memorial in Gloria’s name may do so with the charity of their choice.