Betty Lou Milihram

Betty Lou Milihram, 79, of Kensington, MD, passed away Wednesday, May 20, 2020 after a 15 year battle with Alzheimer’s.
She was born August 15, 1940 in Altoona, PA to William H. “Bill” and Amelia J.  “Boots” (Wolfe) Jamison. She grew up in Bethesda. She graduated in 1958. She was a member of the very first graduating class of Walter Johnson High School.
She married Julien “Joe” Milihram in January 1961. They were married for 55 years.
A friend suggested she become a school crossing guard in 1972 when she was a parent herself, juggling three kids and various part time jobs. Her first assignment was Woodward High School on Old Georgetown Road, followed by Luxmanor Elementary School. She took over the Garrett Park Elementary School post in 1986 and remained there until her retirement in 2003.
Her easy going, mild mannered personality took on an alter ego when she stepped into the street to protect “her kids”. She fiercely protected thousands of kids during her 30 year tenure. Being a crossing guard was not a job, it was her calling.  A Garrett Park parent once said “Not all super heroes wear a cape, some carry a whistle” when describing Betty Lou. The children that were entrusted into her care adored her.
In addition to being a school crossing guard Betty Lou was also a teacher’s assistant at Luxmanor Elementary school. She was a reading specialist. She loved working with the kids as she helped them develop their confidence in their ability to read.
This was perhaps her most endearing trait, her love of children.
She had a passion for bingo, duck pin bowling, dogs and Clearwater Beach Florida.
She is preceded in death by her parents and her husband.
She is survived by her sister: Charlene Mark; three children: Eddie Milihram, Barbara Milihram and Gary Milihram; three grandchildren: Kristin Milihram, Heather Milihram and Micah Stouter; two great-grandchildren: Jayce Oden and Lovella Reed; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions the family is unable to receive friends. A private family viewing was held at Stauffer funeral home in Frederick MD on Sunday, May 24, 2020.
Interment will take place on Wednesday, June 3, 2020 at 10 AM at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Silver Spring, MD for immediate family only. Father Hughes will preside over the graveside service.
Betty Lou loved the children of Garrett Park Elementary so much we ask that donations be made to Garrett Park Elementary School, 4810 Oxford St., Garrett Park, MD 20896, ATTN: Betty Lou’s Kids.
May her kind spirit, generous heart, infectious smile and extraordinary work ethic live on in those who love and respect her.