Mary “Celeste” Miller passed away on July 23, 2025, in the comfort and love of her daughter, Rose Marie Kiernan; son-in-law, Scott Kiernan; and granddaughters, Chloe and Carly Kiernan. Celeste is also survived by her brother, Joseph Gumus; her niece, JulieLingle; and her nephew, Joshua Gumus.
Celeste was born in Chicago, Illinois, on January 14, 1951, to Frank and Rose Marie Gumus. In 1953, she moved with her parents and grandparents, August and Armella Baum, to Belleair, Florida. She attended St. Cecilia’s Catholic School and Clearwater High School, later graduating from the University of South Florida in 1981. A talented, passionate, empathetic, and “tell-it-like-it-is” teacher for over 30 years, Celeste made a lasting impact on students, fellow teachers, and the incredible support staff at Seminole Elementary. In retirement, Celeste enjoyed gardening in her beautiful yard, shopping for the perfect plant, travelling with her family and doting on her beloved granddaughters.
Lovingly named Grammy, she cherished easy beach days, fishing with her brother, walking with her neighbors, cuddling with her sweet schnauzer Sophie, and adventuring with her best friend Carol Simrell. She also devoted her time and energy to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, where her strong faith led her to serve as a Sacristan, Eucharistic Minister, and a teacher of First Holy Communion. In addition, her skilled green thumb brightened the church gardens.
Her big-hearted, spunky, “jitterbug” personality is missed dearly and will remain in our hearts forever.
A memorial mass in celebration of Mary Celeste’s life will be held on Thursday, July 31, at 11:00 AM at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a monetary donation to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church/School for back-to-school essentials. Celeste would love nothing more than to help students during this season. Kindly note Celeste’s name in the gift note section. https://www.osvhub.com/stpatricklargo/giving/funds/offertory
12 Responses
We are so sorry for your loss. Love that I share a Clearwater high school with Celeste.
And I love that she was an avid gardener. Something that I’m enjoying more and more as I get older.
What a precious person who will be missed beyond measure. Rest in peace sweet Celeste
RIP, Celeste. You will be missed! 😓
Just a wonderful tribute to your mom.
-In Loving Memory of Celeste-
May Celeste rest in peace.
Celeste was a cherished friend and a vibrant spirit who touched the lives of many with her warmth and kindness. She held a special place in the heart of Carol Simrell, her dearest friend and devoted traveling companion. Their bond was one of shared adventures, laughter, and unwavering support — a true testament to lifelong friendship.
To those who knew her, Celeste will be remembered not only for the joy she brought into every room, but also for her generous heart and the deep connections she forged. Her memory will live on in the stories shared, the places visited, and the love she left behind.
She will be deeply missed.
Celeste was a dynamic teacher and so loved by so many. It was my honor to work with her at Seminole Elementary. We had such a dynamic and child centered environment,
and Celeste contributed every once of her being to making school a magical place for her students. My prayers and thoughts are with her family. She was a remarkable woman.
Celeste you will truly be missed. My heart is broken knowing what you went through.
All my love my dear Cousin
Love you
Sandy
Celeste brought joy everywhere she went! She never minced words yet spoke with kindness and honesty! I will forever treasure our friendship and keep her in my heart!
Celeste was a tiny person but she had the biggest heart and made an incredibly big imprint on my life and family in so many ways. Many like me, have wonderful memories of her and her big beautiful personality. My condolences go out to her family .
So sorry for your loss. I know she was so loved and will be missed dearly. 🙏
My heart aches with sadness for the loss of my dear friend, Celeste. Exercising and gardening is what we shared, as well as inspiring conversations. 💔
Judy
Celeste had a way of having one feel seen and her. She always put forth her energy into students and go workers as I teamed with her at Seminole Elementary. We had many times that I roll always remember. She will be so missed!
I was fortunate to have been introduced to Celeste in the late 60’s she was truly a special and beautiful young lady. She loved her precious baby girl, Rose Marie to the moon and back. Celeste may you rest in peace. Rosie and family please know I am so sorry for your loss and keeping you, and your family in my prayers, Aunt Deloris, Steve and Holland