On the morning of August 31, 2022, Viva Jean Miller Persell was called home to be with her heavenly father at the age of 88.
After losing the love of her life, husband Paul, she was able to remain at their home with the help of some very special ladies and her oldest son, Doug. Viva suffered a massive stroke on August 25. She was then transferred to Wright Memorial Hospital where she passed away peacefully.
Funeral Services were held at 1:00 p.m. today (Thursday, September 8), at the First Assembly of God Church in Trenton under the direction of Roberson Funeral Home of Jamesport.
Burial followed in the Edinburg Cemetery, at Edinburg.
Viva was born in Roanoke on the January 15, 1934 to Charles and Lela Rosson Miller. Being the youngest of six children, she became very special to her father. When she was very young, she started singing with her father at various church services. After having very few lessons, she continued to learn how to play the piano, organ and accordion. She became church organist before she turned 20. Not only was she talented that way but had a beautiful voice. She continued to sing until a few days before her passing.
Viva worked as a nurse™s aide at Cullers Hospital for a few years. She then worked as a Dental Assistant for Curtis Cox and his father until 1964.
After dating for several years, she and Paul traveled to Edin, OK and were married on the August 25, 1961 by the Reverend Earl Kelley. They then resided at Trenton for several years and started their family.
Together they accomplished many things, including owning several stores: Paul™s Merchandise, The Linen Closet and The Bargain Outlet. They pastored several churches. Paul would often say that Viva was his rock and without her he was nothing. They shared a great love together. Their love was one that was filled with God™s love.
Survivors include her daughter and son-n-law, Paula (Paul Brain) of Webster City, IA; her son, Doug of Trenton; her son and daughter-in-law, Anthony (Suzanne Tague) of Cameron; and three grandchildren, Justin, Jayden, and Jenna.
In addition to her husband, Viva is preceded in death by her parents, Lela (Rosson) and Charles Miller; two sisters, Vada Hutchinson and Vera Miller; and three brothers, Vergil Miller, Victor Miller and Vernie Miller.
Viva will always be loved and remembered for her kindness and loving spirit. Her way that she enjoyed life with an occasional joking about various things. She would not want us to be sad but rather be joyful that she is where her heart wanted to be, with our heavenly Father and Savior. In remembrance of her, always remember that there are others who are alone that could use a loving hug, so make it a point to show others that you really care.
Memorials may be made to the Edinburg Cemetery in care of Roberson Funeral Home, 503 S. Broadway, Jamesport, MO 64648.
