James Dwight Milhoan

James, affectionately known as Jim, was so loved and cherished. He was married to Ione “Marie” Gable, Mellen, Milhoan for 53 years. While attending the University of Tulsa (UT), Jim was also on payroll at another university tutoring physics students while working on his degree.

Jim had a distinguished career as a NASA/JSC Senior Aerospace Engineer, as a Thermal Specialist. He dedicated 31 and a half years to NASA/JSC, supporting the Arc Jet and Radiant Heat Facilities. After retirement, he continued to contribute to various contract companies supporting NASA/JSC, thermal testing for an additional 15 years. Jim had a passion for Thermal Testing for NASA’s Apollo, Space Shuttle, and Orion Programs, as well as others.

Jim is preceded in death by his father and mother; brother, Jerry Milhoan, stepfather Arthur Troll, grandfather Granville Milhoan, grandmother Hattie Milhoan, grandfather Charlie Adams, grandmother Minnie Adams; and stepson, Edward C. Mellen.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Ione “Marie” Milhoan; stepson, Timothy Mellen; stepdaughter-in-laws, Nisha Oza (Mellen) and Susan Mellen; and step grandchildren, Shannon, Cymri, Bronwyn, Tristan, Beechie; and two step great-granddaughters, Chloe and Kinlee; sister-in-law, Jude Milhoan.

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 28, 2026, at Heritage Park Baptist Church, 2732 FM 528 Rd, Webster, TX 77598, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Immediately following the service a catered reception will be held at Heritage Park Baptist Church (HPBC). A Committal Service will follow at Forest Park East Cemetery, 21620 Gulf Fwy, Webster, TX 77598, from 1:30 pm to 2:00 pm.