James J. McMillian, born in Wilmington, North Carolina on August 8, 1944 to the late Clarence McMillian and the late Inez Cotton McMillian. He departed this life on June 4, 2021, at the age of 76, surrounded by his family. Even though he is no longer with us, he leaves an abundance of memories for us to cherish and keep close to our hearts.
James was raised by the late Jesse McMillian and the late Cora Peppers McMillian of Bally North Carolina. He started his education in the North Carolina public school system until eight grade before relocating to Bronx, New York where he furthered his education.
James started working at an early age for a local New York hotel as a bellhop until moving to Washington, DC. Upon his arrival to DC, he began working for the Department of Agriculture. After leaving the government, his brother Zollie assisted him in obtaining an opportunity with the local labor union as a Laborer until promoted to Foreman.
Throughout his life, James kept God close to his heart. He loved the Lord and accepted him into his life through water baptism in 1970 at The Way of the Cross Church of Christ.
James loved working with his hands which was evident in his passion for fixing cars. You could always find James attending a local car show checking out the flashy “hot rods”, the Classic cars and trucks. He especially loved Uncle Jesse’s Caprice Classic that he proudly took ownership of after he passed. You could find James enjoying his other favorite activities eating crabs, bike riding, fishing, playing cards, watching westerns, supporting local charity events( breast cancer walks), messing with his CB system and his handle name was “Cricket”, and of course cheering on his favorite football team, the Redskins.
In 2005, James decided to retire after fifty years and was honored to receive his union gold card. He enjoyed spending time with his family, friends, and his grandchildren whom he was very proud of; this brought him so much joy to his life.
James leaves to cherish his memory, wife Paula McMillian, four children: Jamie McMillian, Raymond Reese, Tasha-LaNaa’ Proctor (James) and Tamika McMillian; one step-son Donzell Clarke; four grandchildren Elijah McMillian, Isaiah McMillian, Zoe McMillian, Xavier Proctor; two sisters: Betty McFarlane (Clinton), Doris McMillian Sayles; two brothers, Zollie Peppers and William C. Bobbitt; a special nephew, Stanley Peppers; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
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