McMILLER, Maria Albertina Alves Gomes

Born October 9, 1954, in Padreiro, Portugal to José Fernandes Gomes and Maria da Conceição Alves, our beloved Maria “Tina” McMiller fell asleep peacefully in Jesus in the early morning of November 1, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. She was 71.

Maria is survived by her loving husband of 44 years, Frank McMiller; her son Ryan (Kristin) and grandchildren: Nyla, Adalee, Ronen, Joslyn, and Thaddeus; her daughter Krystin (Jackson) and grandchildren: Amelia, Clara, Ava, and Levi; and her son, Tyler. She is also survived by her sister Rose (Luigi) and her nieces Jessica and Cristina and nephew Christopher; her sister-in-law Anna (Manuel (decd.)) and her nephew Dennis and niece Diane; as well as numerous cousins in her large extended family. She was predeceased by her parents, José Fernandes Gomes and Maria da Conceição Alves, as well as her brother, Manuel Gomes.

Maria was a beautiful, thoughtful, and caring woman of God who always put others before herself. She found joy in spending time in her garden and soaking in the warmth of the sun. But most of all, she loved cooking delicious meals for family and friends – pouring her heart into every dish and finding joy in bringing people together, even as cancer took its toll on her. Though her strength waned, her love and generosity never did.

Her garden bloomed with unique, beautiful flowers and produced a remarkable abundance of fruits and vegetables. Maria had a zest for learning new things, trying new recipes, and she never shied away from hard work. She was very nurturing to numerous children entrusted in her care while she created and ran her own daycare business. She worked tirelessly, taking on every job possible, to ensure her children had the best opportunities in life, including fully supporting their education.

She had a special interest in caring for her pets, such as exotic birds and her stunning salt-water fish tank. Her compassion extended to every creature, great and small.

To Maria, family was everything, and she enjoyed many trips to spend cherished time with loved ones. She travelled across Canada and the United States; to Hawaii; and to her beloved homeland, Portugal.

Maria was a devoted wife and often took a quieter role, but she was the strength behind her husband’s ministry. She was the glue of the family; her fierce love for her children emanated in every aspect of her life. Many knew Maria as a caregiver and highly energetic person, especially when it came to her grandchildren. She had no trouble keeping up with them and wanted nothing more than to protect, love them deeply, and watch them grow in God’s grace.

Maria was also a cherished sister, a beloved Auntie, niece and cousin, a lovable friend, a loyal wife, a caring mother, and a delightful, treasured “Zinha” to her grandchildren.

She had a beautiful, sacrificial soul with the largest heart that reflected God’s light to many people. Jesus was precious to her, and she looked forward to the hope we have in Him and His eternal kingdom, desiring nothing more than to be reunited with her loved ones there.

Maria Albertina Alves Gomes McMiller, forever in our hearts.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.”  2 Timothy 4:7,8 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Child Impact International or Hospice House Kelowna.

A Funeral Service, with Pastor Jorge Tenorio officiating, will be held on SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2025, at 3:00 pm (PST), at Kelowna Seventh Day Adventist Church, 1130 Springfield Rd, Kelowna, BC. If you are unable to attend in person, please join the family online by Livestream at the time of the service.