Devra Dalynne Milam Obituary (1955

Devra DaLynne (Warren) Milam, 70, passed away on December 26, 2025, at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center. Devra passed peacefully with her daughter Liberty by her side, holding her hand. Devra was born in Bakersfield, California, in February 1955, the first of four children born to Eugene and Bobbetta (Forgues) Warren. Raised in Bakersfield, CA, from a young age, Devra helped support her family—cooking, cleaning, and caring for her younger siblings while her mother and grandmother worked. In high school, she participated in numerous clubs, including track and serving as a yearbook editor, and developed a strong interest in journalism and human rights. In 1973, she graduated early from Foothill High School. As a young woman, Devra worked on Timothy Lemucchi's congressional campaign, passing out flyers and encouraging people to vote. She influenced her peers to advocate for themselves and others, firmly believing that every voice matters. This experience marked the beginning of Devra's lifelong journey into social advocacy and public service. Devra was never without a job and worked tirelessly in roles both big and small to support her family. She was involved with many nonprofits and organizations throughout California. She was one of the original organizers of The Tree Foundation in Kern County and among the first employees of the Bakersfield Small Business Development Center. If you ever walked through the Haberfelde Building, chances are you crossed paths with Devra. She later built a career as a paralegal, working for J. Anthony "Tony" Bryan, criminal defense attorney and public defender. She assisted with many high-profile cases, including Vincent Brothers and Chad Yarbrough, and supported Tony for many years as his trusted assistant. Tony became a lifelong family friend and was deeply admired for his groundbreaking work. Devra also worked closely with Spencer Walker, an attorney and pillar of California's legal community. She always spoke highly of her employers and coworkers, each of whom influenced her commitment to social justice and equity. In the early 2000s, Devra united with her partner, John Kackman, and in 2004 relocated from Bakersfield to Ketchikan, Alaska, where they lived together for nearly 20 years. They enjoyed watching NASCAR on Sundays—especially rooting for Kevin Harvick—hiking local recreation areas, and exploring the outdoors. Devra loved beachcombing, traveling, walking her dog Ginny, wine tasting, beadwork, crocheting, music, and attending community events. For several years, she participated in the Blueberry and Winter Arts Fair, selling her handmade crafts including soap, dresses, children's clothing, jewelry, and more. In 2007, Devra began the next chapter of her career with Alaska Legal Services, where she devoted 15 years to assisting low-income and elderly Alaskan residents with free civil legal services. She often traveled to neighboring communities such as Metlakatla, Prince of Wales, Kake, and Hoonah. Devra took great pride in her work and deeply appreciated Alaska Native culture. She valued the warmth and hospitality of the people she served and found fulfillment in supporting communities near and far. Devra was passionate about supporting nonprofits and community fundraisers in Ketchikan, particularly the annual auctions for the Humane Society and Love In Action. She regularly participated in coalitions focused on transportation, mental health, and housing for unhoused individuals. Devra was extremely knowledgeable in elder law, landlord-tenant rights, Alaska Native law, family law, and more—and she served her community in every way she could. Devra knew no stranger. She was kind, caring, wickedly humorous, and admiringly witty. She loved karaoke, traveling, gardening, and spending time with family. Above all, she deeply loved her children and sisters and was a joy to be around. She was preceded in death by her grandparents Frank and Thelma Forgues; her parents Eugene and Bobbetta Warren; her siblings Jana Byers and Eric Warren; and her partner, John Kackman. She is survived by her three daughters and their spouses: Apryl and Wesley Price of Georgia, Liberty and Whitney of Oregon, and Lillian of Oregon; her sister Wendy Landers and brother-in-law Ronnie Landers of Idaho; and her two beloved grandchildren, Teagan and Elliot. In lieu of flowers, Devra and her family request donations be made to The Cat People of Bakersfield, California, Love INC of Ketchikan, Alaska, or any trusted local nonprofit organization. Devra would insist you at least watch Erin Brockovich and Pay it Forward. Devra believed in kindness, laughter, and always finding a little mischief along the way.