September 9, 1932 – March 19, 2026
Edna Jean Dozier Millet, a woman of grace, strength, and deep, abiding love for her family, was born In Chattanooga, TN on September 9, 1932. She was the beloved daughter of Edna Berry Dozier and William Cornelius Dozier. She passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026, at the age of 93.
She was preceded in death by her husband and soulmate, Rev. Dr. Edmund A. W. Millet, a partnership that shaped the foundation of her life and family, her parents, and six siblings; Cornelius Dozier, Charles E Dozier, Ella Nora McCoy, Willie Mae Dozier, Sarah Dozier, and Grace Woods. She stood as the last living member of her immediate family, a living bridge to generations of strength, resilience, and legacy.
Mrs. Millet’s life was rooted in purpose and excellence. She attended Wilberforce University, graduating with the Class of 1954, an institution where she built lifelong bonds as a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. She went on to earn her Master’s degree in Education from the University of Michigan, a reflection of both her intellect and her belief in the power of learning.
Mrs. Millet began her teaching career in Flint, Michigan, before moving with her husband to Springfield, Ohio, where they welcomed their daughter, Bronwen L. Millet. The family later settled in Buffalo, New York, where she continued her distinguished career in the Buffalo Public School System. It was in Buffalo that her sons, Peter Edmund Millet and Philip Leander Millet, were born completing the family she loved so deeply and protected so fiercely. She ended her illustrious teaching career in the Detroit Public School System. Through her 40+ years in the teaching profession, she undoubtedly changed countless lives.
Beyond her academic accomplishments, Mrs. Millet was a woman whose presence could be felt the moment she entered a room. She was elegant, poised, and strikingly beautiful, with a style and confidence that reflected both pride and self-respect. She carried herself with a quiet authority, but those who knew her well also knew her warmth, her humor, and the deep care she held for the people she loved.
At home, her love was constant and unmistakable. Mrs. Millet showed love through what she did, through meals prepared daily, through structure and consistency, through making sure her family was cared for in every way that mattered. She was an exceptional cook, and her kitchen was a place of both nourishment and connection. She was also an avid gardener, someone who found peace and pride in growing things with her own hands. Even now, annual flowers continue to bloom each year at her former home on Nicolet Place in Detroit, Michigan, a quiet and beautiful reminder of her care, her presence, and the life she nurtured.
Mrs. Millet loved her family with strength and intention. She was a protective, honest, and unwavering matriarch. She spoke her mind, stood firm in her values, and expected the best, because she believed in the people around her. Beneath that strength was a deep well of love; steady, reliable, and always present. She also carried a sharp and unforgettable sense of humor, bringing laughter, truth, and perspective in ways only she could.
She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Bronwen L. Millet (Angela); her sons, Peter Edmund Millet (Marcia) and Philip Leander Millet; and her beloved grandchildren, Mackenzie, Brynden, Lea Bella, and Elliott. She is reunited in eternal peace with her grandson, Kennedy, who was called to his heavenly home in 2021.
Mrs. Millet was cared for with extraordinary love and devotion by her longtime caregiver, Alicia Allen, who stood by her side for over 10 years. Alicia’s compassion, patience, and unwavering presence provided comfort, dignity, and care throughout the final years of Mrs. Millet’s life. She was also supported by an army of devoted caregivers who are lovingly referred to as Team Edna.
Mrs. Millet also leaves to mourn her passing her cherished nieces: Hazel Davison (Jackie), Laurese Richmond, Edna Rose, Kibibi, Jamila, and nephews, Quincey, Barney, William, and Felix along with a host of other nieces, nephews, extended family members, and loved ones whose lives were touched by her strength and her love.
Mrs. Edna Jean Dozier Millet lived a life of dignity, purpose, and deep love. Her legacy lives on in the family she raised, the values she instilled, and the countless lives she shaped through both her work and her presence.
She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
Viewing will be held from 3-6 p.m. Friday, April 17, 2026 at the Swanson Funeral Home (North West), 14751 W McNichols Road, Detroit, MI 48235. Funeral Services for Edna will held at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the Swanson Funeral Home (North West). Arrangements have been made with the guidance of the Swanson Funeral Home (North West), Detroit, Michigan. Friends can express sympathies to the family online by visiting the tribute wall.
Last Updated on April 13, 2026