Mary Belle Miller

Mary Belle Miller (née Powers), 99 years of age and a lifelong resident of Amherst, passed away peacefully at her daughter's home surrounded by family and friends on Sunday, March 8, 2026. She was born July 8, 1926, in Amherst, Ohio, to Fred R. and Beral J. Powers (née Kuss). Mary was deeply rooted in the Amherst community and spent her life serving its schools, churches, and civic organizations with dedication and pride. Mary devoted 34 years to teaching as a beloved kindergarten teacher in the Amherst school system, where she helped shape the lives of generations of young students. Education was a cherished family tradition; her father, Fred Powers, served the school district as well, and Powers Elementary School was named in honor of her father. Mary graduated from Amherst High School Class of 1944. She earned degrees in social work and education from Baldwin-Wallace University and was a lifelong advocate for learning and community involvement. Mary was a devoted member of Amherst Congregational Church, where she shared her musical gifts by playing the organ and singing in the choir for many years. She was active with the community chorus The Harmonets. Her commitment to public service extended beyond the classroom. Mary served as a member of Amherst City Council and remained actively involved in causes that reflected her compassionate spirit. She participated in the civil rights movement and worked to promote AIDS education during a time when awareness and understanding were greatly needed. She was known for her community care in Oberlin serving hot meals to those in need. During World War II, Mary also contributed to the war effort by helping assemble artillery shells in the U.S. Automatic, now Nordson Corp. of Amherst. She was also involved in Lorain International and in charge of the sacred music event for years. She embraced life with curiosity and enthusiasm, even taking up belly dancing in the early 1970s, an example of her adventurous and joyful personality. Mary was a proud member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and remained active in the Amherst Historical Society, where she helped preserve the rich history of the community she loved. She is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth Dean Sniezek (Dennis) of Elyria; by her sons, Norman B. Miller (Shelley) of Amherst, and Joel Powers Miller (Marcia) of Amherst; eight grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Julie Felty on October 4, 2013; her brother, Harry M. Powers; her cousin, Marilyn Jenne; and her parents, Fred R. and Beral J. Powers (née Kuss). Per Mary's request, graveside services will be held privately by the family. In lieu of flowers, Mary's family request that donations be made to the Community Congregational United Church of Christ c/o music department, 379 S. Main St, Amherst, Ohio 44001 or the Amherst Historical Society, 113 S. Lake St, Amherst, Ohio 44001.