In Loving Memory
1929•2026
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Giovanna Fortunata Furano Milner, our beloved Mother and Grandma, age 97, peacefully returned to her heavenly home for a joyful reunion with loved ones on Sunday, August 23, 2026. Born May 9, 1929, in Salt Lake City to Matilda Elizabeth Mariani and Antonio Furano. Her passionate Papa, head chef at the Hotel Utah, and her mindful Mama, gave her a foundation for life with a love for family, faith, food and traditions. She was a loving sister to Pete, Catherine and Nina Furano. At Bryant Junior High, she fell in love at first sight with cocky, confident, comedic and charismatic Ralph Richard (Dick) Milner. They were loving soul mates, and married for time on March 12, 1948, in the Cathedral of the Madeleine. As a young mother, she was introduced to the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. After hearing about the prophet Joseph Smith and the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ, she said she felt as if she had “come out of darkness and into the light.” Valiant in the LDS faith, she was instrumental in leading and guiding her husband and children into full fellowship and activity in the Church. They were sealed together as an eternal family in the Salt Lake Temple, January 10, 1964. A woman of great faith, she lived an exemplary life of service to her family, friends, church and community. A humble soul, she was grateful for the simple things in life. Raising her family on modest means, she enjoyed shopping at thrift stores. (Deseret Industries) She loved being a mother and homemaker, vegetable gardening, doing laundry, dancing to all kinds of music (Neil Diamond), and especially preparing and cooking delectable healthy homemade Italian meals for her family and friends. She jokingly said she was always “the best eater,” and more importantly she taught and encouraged her family to “Feast upon the words of Christ.” She is preceded in death by her devoted husband Dick, faithful sons Richard and Ted Milner, and son-in-law Ray Milius. Survived by children, Frank (Carolyn) Milner, Sheran Milner Milius, Joanne Milner, Kerry Hill Milner (Ted’s wife), Sam (Becky) Milner, Diane Stensrud Milner (Richard’s wife), Elsie Dee, a Navajo foster-daughter, and Pucci, her loyal canine companion. Her fervent testimony and posterity are her living legacy and most priceless possession. A “Beloved” mother of six, a “Grand” mother of 19, a “Great” grandmother of 35, a “Great-Great” grandmother of five, and more importantly an endeared “Grandma” to all she knew and loved. Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Noon at the Draper 9th Ward, 12353 So. 600 East, Draper. A viewing will be held prior to the service from 10-11:30AM. You may watch the service online through Zoom by clicking on the "Watch Service" button above. Until we meet again, our dearly beloved and blessed Mama and Grandma, Arrivederci!
Send flowers for Giovanna · The Rose Shop delivers them to the service, free of charge.
Frank and family,
I only met your mother once. She seemed like a lovely, kind lady. Also, I have heard you speak so highly of her with love.
She will forever be with you in your mind and as long as you keep her in your memories and heart….she will always be with you.
May she rest in peace!!!
Susan Riley
My deepest condolences to Joanne and the rest of the family. She was just the sweetest, she will be missed. I always loved seeing her smiling face. I pray for comfort and peace for all her loved ones.
As a child growing up across the street (Montague Ave), I always felt love, happiness, & friendship from this great lady. My parents & family were always welcomed in the Milner home, she being the first to ensure a happy environment. She provided so many lasting memories, great motivational moments, & inspirational teaching moments. She was always there for her family, friends, neighbors, & associates, She was one of those wonderful spirits that our Heavenly Father purposely sent here to earth to bless us all. I truly believe that she will be welcomed with open arms into the glorious presence of our Lord, Jesus Christ, in the Celestial Kingdom. And yes, she will be there when it's our turn to be called home, and you can be assured that she will already have your favorite meal prepared along with a loving hug. Thank you, Sister "Johnnie" Milner for sharing all that you did, our prayers are with your family in this grieving moment, have them understand that it will only be, in the Lord's time, a very brief moment that you will greet them again into your eternal family. God Bless you.
Dr. Leon & Carla Grange
Junction City, Arkansas
Hey Milner family, I’m very disappointed that I was unable to attend your mother‘s services. I’ve always felt that our families shared a special relationship. Speaking from experience, you’ll learn to live without her, but it will never be the same.
Love to all,
Steve
She was the neatest aunt and boy she could cook. Its great she lived a long time too.now she will be with uncle Dick. Hang in there you guys love ya!!!
Your family has always been a part of our community. Your mother was a wonderful example.
We send love and condolences.
Steve and Kay Wood family
Your family has always been a part of our community. Your mother was a wonderful example.
We send love and condolences.
Steve and Kay Wood family
I knew Richard-- well I was younger, but always loved a good laugh! My dad was Glen Milner, who has passed-- He's talk about Richard and all the chuckles! I'm sure you were a good sport with all the ribbin! Sorry for your loss! I hope you remember all the good times and let the rest go!
Joanne and family,
I am so sorry about not knowing of your loss.
Your mom and dad were such a sweetheart couple when sitting outside, living nextdoor to your family made the block a nice place to grow up.
She will be greatly missed by so many, and when I drive by Montique Ave I’ll have another tear running down my cheek !
A few kind words can mean a great deal to the family in the days ahead.
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