Jane Miller Philo

Jane Miller Philo, much loved wife, mother and friend, passed away on Thursday, March 9, 2023.  Jane was born in Plattsburg, New York on October 31, 1938, to Viola Holbrook Miller and Roy Miller.  It was there Jane met and married her husband of 62 years, John D. “Dave” Philo. Jane and Dave traveled extensively with his career in the U.S. Air Force, stationed in Maine, Kansas, Texas, Colorado, Florida, Maryland and Turkey, and finally settled in Ocean Springs, Mississippi in 1977.

Jane received a degree in nursing from Keuka College in the Finger Lakes district of New York, and served as a public health nurse early in her career in several states as well as overseas, in Ankara, Turkey. Jane continued to pursue her education, receiving master’s degrees from Troy University and the University of Southern Mississippi. During her studies, she became involved with the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence, where she served as Executive Director for over twenty years. It was there that Jane made her most lasting impact. During her tenure with the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence, she grew the program into one of the most innovative and comprehensive programs serving victims of interpersonal violence in the State of Mississippi.  She also served as President of the Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence. In her work, Jane was a champion and leader in promoting the interests and preserving the dignity of victims of crime. She played a vital role in the development of Mississippi’s laws, practices and attitudes related to the response to domestic violence. Her effect on the lives of countless women, children and men through her work simply cannot be overstated.  

The family wishes to extend special thanks to the administration and staff of Greenbriar Nursing Home and Saad Hospice Care. The love and care she received during her last year of life were such a comfort. Donations in Jane’s honor and memory can be made to the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence, Inc. at www.gccfn.org.   

Jane is survived by her loving husband, Dave, and their daughter, Heather Philo Wagner (Jeff).  She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

A celebration of Jane’s life will held Sunday, April 30. 2023 from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. at Riemann Family Funeral Home, 13872 Lemoyne Blvd. in West Jackson County.  Visit our website to share memories, condolences and photos at www.riemannfamily.com