Eugene "Gene" McMillan

Born on March 7 1938 in Ocilla, Georgia, Gene was the son of the late John Henry McMillan and Judy McClelland McMillan.

Gene was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Janis Massey McMillan; his cherished son, Derek McMillan; his grandson, John Ethan McMillan and his brother, SCPO (Ret.) Kyle McMillan.

He is lovingly survived by his son, Stacey McMillan; his daughter-in-law, Nadine McMillan; and his treasured granddaughters, Kelly McMillan and Emily McMillan; brother, Rev. John Carroll McMillan (Ann) and sister-in-law, Peggy McMillan.

Gene retired as a Preconstruction Engineer with the Georgia Department of Transportation after a dedicated career of public service. He also proudly served his country as a Sergeant First Class in the U.S. Army Reserve, 3rd Division. A faithful member of Faith Methodist Church, Gene was active in his church community and especially enjoyed singing in the choir.

Gene found great joy in coaching recreational football and baseball, cheering on the Atlanta Braves and Georgia football, fishing, and spending time at the family farm in Ocilla. He had a remarkable talent for woodworking and wood carving, creating countless handcrafted pieces that continue to be treasured by family, friends, customers, and his church family.

Known affectionately as "Grandpapa," Gene created countless cherished memories with his granddaughters. They fondly remember helping him in his woodworking shop, swimming together, riding on the bass boat, and even leaving their footprints in freshly poured concrete when he expanded the shop—memories that will forever remain close to their hearts.

Gene and Janis shared a love of travel and adventure. Together they explored all of the contiguous 48 states and traveled internationally to Scotland, Wales, and England. While he enjoyed many hobbies and accomplishments, Gene's greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and faithful friend whose kindness, generosity, and quiet strength will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of Gene's life on Monday, July 27, 2026, at Faith Methodist Church, 501 Grassdale Road, Cartersville, Georgia 30121. Visitation will begin at 12:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service at 2:00 p.m. Gene will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife, Janis, in a private family ceremony at Providence Cemetery.