MILLER, Marsha - Longtime Palo Alto resident Marsha Miller passed away on June 29th after a valiant struggle against cancer. At the time of her death, Marsha was Director of Development at Castilleja School, her alma mater during her middle school years. She graduated from Palo Alto High School, earned a B.F.A. from Sophie Newcomb College at Tulane University and an M.A. from San Francisco State University. Marsha devoted her professional life to independent schools, working at Middlesex School, The Pike School, and Crystal Springs Uplands before returning to Castilleja in 1994. She also served as a trustee of the Keys School in Palo Alto. Castilleja Head of School Joan Lonergan spoke on behalf of the school community: "We have lost a very dear friend and champion. Because of Marsha's exceptional personal and professional integrity, expertise, experience, and passion for her alma mater and its future, she was among the roost respected and successful directors of development in the Bay Area." Marsha loved life, her family, her dogs, and was an avid Giants fan. An accomplished artist, Marsha regularly exhibited her work and was an active member of the Pacific Art League. She will be remembered for her compassion and wit, as well for her passion for collecting artifacts from many cultures. Her great curiosity for fine art, folk art, and functional art from around the world inspired her work and her friends. She is survived by her husband, Michael Collins, her son James Yawn, his wife Lisa and their son Joseph James, her mother Florrie Miller, and her siblings Robert Miller, Andrew Miller, and Debbie Miller Cody. The family will welcome Marsha's friends to a celebration of her life on August 28th at 4 p.m. at the Castilleja School, 1310 Bryant Street, Palo Alto. Contributions can be made in Marsha's name to Castilleja School or the Pacific Art League, 668 Ramona Street, Palo Alto, CA. (650-321-3891).
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