John Henry "Mac" McMillan Jr., aged 76, passed away on July 27, 2024, surrounded by his wife and children in Middletown, CT. Born on April 12, 1948, in Ahoskie, NC, Mac was a cherished figure known for his vivacity, kindness, and enduring sense of humor.
John, who preferred to be called "Mac" or "Junior," led a life marked by service and community engagement. He graduated from Bertie High School before furthering his education at Wilcox Tech. His commitment to service was evident through his distinguished military career, where he served two years active duty in the Army during the Vietnam War followed by four years in the Army Reserve. His bravery and skill were recognized with several commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal, Bronze Star, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, M-14 and M-16 Marksmanship Badges, and M-60 Certification.
After his military service, Mac worked as a welder at Electric Boat General Dynamics, and later at Connecticut Rental, Xavier High School, and Meadow Meat. His work ethic and dedication left a lasting impact on his colleagues and the community.
A man of many interests, Mac was actively involved in numerous veterans' organizations, including the Freemasons, American Legion, Vietnam Veterans Association, Disabled Veterans Association, and Veterans of Foreign War Association. His love for nature was profound; he cherished moments spent fishing, watching birds, and tending to his garden. Mac's home was a place of warmth, often filled with laughter, where he enjoyed spending time with his beloved dog, Oreo, and engaging in heartfelt conversations with friends and family.
He is survived by his loving wife, Judith Fay McMillan; his children, Angelo Moonie Watson (wife Linda and children Makai, Kolbe, S'nai, Nia); Marjorie Elizabeth McMillan, Krystle McMillan (and grandson Ethan), and Monique Hennessey (husband Stephen and grandchildren Arabella, Alaura, Amelia, Amara); his brother, Grafton McMillan; his sisters, Mabel Long-Buie, Annie Doris Murchison, and sister-in-law Leslie White; Godchildren Gary White, Bobby Earl Freeman, Jeremiah Holley, Shawndell Askew, and Alexander Direnzo; along with many nieces and nephews.
Mac was preceded in death by his parents, Eula Pearl and John Henry McMillan Sr., and siblings George, Linwood, Grady, Johnny Milton, Edward, and Elwood McMillan, Leon White, Geraldine Lewis, Lenora Hayes, and Christine Miller.
Services will be held on Monday, August 5, 2024, at The Church of the Holy Trinity, 381 Main St, Middletown, CT 06457. Calling hours will be from 10:30 to 11:30 AM, followed by the service from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. A military burial with honors will take place at Veterans Cemetery in Middletown, CT at 1 PM. Repast will take place at Vets Park in Middletown, CT following the service.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Harry Ruffin Jr. American Legion Post 206 in Middletown CT. Doolittle Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements. Veterans from the Harry Ruffin Jr. American Legion Post 206 will serve as pallbearers and Honor Guard. Mac's legacy of generosity, leadership, and jovial spirit will forever be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege to know him. To share memories or send condolences to the family, please visit www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.
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