Robert F. McMillan (Bob), fondly known as Mr. Mac, passed away on Tuesday, May 10, 2022 in Mills River, NC. Mr. Mac was born on November 5, 1943 and raised in Galax VA. . He was the son of the late R.B. and Lucille McMillan.
He was a graduate of Galax High School and later attended Concord College in West Virginia for his undergraduate degree and then received his Masters Degree in Music from Appalachian State University in Boone NC. In 1965, he began his teaching career and taught band in Martinsville his entire career of 35 years before he retired in 1999.
Mr. Mac was well known around town, everyone knew that he was warm, inviting, loyal, and humble. That meant you did not just have a quick conversion, he wanted to know how you were REALLY doing. He had a calm and gentle presence that brought a deep level of comfort to an atmosphere. He had the ability to see beyond the exterior of people and bring forth purpose and potential. He had a love for all things music, cars, sweet treats and peanut butter! He enjoyed spending time in the mountains, moments with his grandkids, and getting lost in music. He was a hero and mentor to many.
Bob was a member, Elder, and Trustee of Calvary Christian Church in Martinsville, VA. He volunteered for Piedmont Arts Association and Grace Network,
Surviving are his wife of 51 years, Jacqueline (Jackie) Pinkard McMillan, his daughter, Ashley McMillan Parks, her children, Kaegan, Will, and Anna Parks of Asheville, NC. His son and wife, Sean and Christie McMillan and grandsons Conor and Sean Greyson of Simpsonville, SC. His Brother and wife, Larry and Fern McMillan of Galax, VA. His sister Delores Clark of Cana, VA. Many nieces and nephews of two beautiful families.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, May 20, 2022 at 2pm at Collins-McKee-Stone Funeral Home, 109 Broad Street, Martinsville, VA 24112. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Robert F. McMillan Memorial Fund which has been established to support musicians and music education. Donations can be sent to Community Foundation, Robert F. McMillian Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 1124, Martinsville, VA 24114 or to the charity of the donor’s choice.
The family would like to invite friends, family and former students to come and share stories to help us celebrate the amazing life of Bob McMillan and the gift of music that he shared to thousands of people.
