Mr. Harry Lee McMillan, aged 66, of Red Springs, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2025, at UNC Chapel Hill Memorial Hospital. Born on November 22, 1958, in Hamlet, NC, Harry was the son of the late Mrs. Marcie Pierce McMillan and Mr. Belton McMillan. His obituary is being shared by Richard Boles Funeral Services, providing comfort and information to the community during this time of loss.
Harry is now reunited in Heaven with his loved ones who predeceased him, including his sisters, Mrs. Barbara Anderson and Mrs. Alice Henderson, his parents, and his cherished pets.
A man of deep faith and devoted to his family, Harry’s life was also characterized by his passion for the UNC Tar Heels. He is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Reba McMillan, and their children: Benjamin McMillan (Erica) of Lumberton, NC, Andrew McMillan (Ashley) of Apex, NC, David McMillan (Emmy) of Raleigh, NC, and Carolina McMillan (Dustin) of Jacksonville, FL. His legacy continues through his six grandchildren – Landon, Caleb, Zanna, Levi, Bentley, and Miles – who were the greatest joy of his life. He is also survived by his brother Belton McMillan of Pembroke, NC (Diane), and sisters Madius Flanagan of Maxton, NC, and Janice McMillan of Matthews, NC, along with numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends who held a special place in his heart.
Harry’s dedication to his roles as a husband, father, and “Papa” was immeasurable. Whether enjoying quiet moments reading with his wife, cheering on the Tar Heels with his children, or playfully engaging with his grandchildren, he was the epitome of a loving family man. His grandchildren will fondly remember his belief that cookies and ice cream, especially grape ice cream, could solve any problem.
Beyond his family, Harry was committed to his profession as a physical therapist. A proud graduate of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Physical Therapy program in 1981, he distinguished himself as the first Lumbee male physical therapist. His career spanned many years with Healthkeeperz and Scotland Memorial Hospital, where he was admired by colleagues and patients alike for his kindness and humor. Harry was known for his endless supply of “dad jokes,” which he shared even in his final days.
He was blessed with a wide circle of friends who were like family, including his Prospect High School Class of 1977 and his SandHills Emmaus Soul Brothers. Harry generously volunteered with the Boy Scouts of America and was a dedicated member of St. Paul’s Methodist Church. His compassionate nature extended beyond his life, as he continued to help others as an organ donor.
The family expresses their sincere gratitude to the compassionate staff of UNC Chapel Hill Memorial Hospital and Scotland Memorial Hospital for their exceptional care of Harry in recent weeks.
While Harry’s absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him, there is comfort in knowing he is at peace with Jesus, undoubtedly cheering “Go Heels!” from Heaven.
Richard Boles Funeral Service is honored to serve the McMillan family during this difficult time. Funeral services to celebrate Harry’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 10, 2025, at St. Paul’s Methodist Church. A private interment will be held at a later date. Visitation will take place on Thursday evening, January 9th, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Richard Boles Funeral Service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Harry’s name to the Sandhills Emmaus Walk, St. Paul’s Methodist Church for Missions, or The Gideons International.
Those attending the visitation are encouraged to wear their favorite collegiate attire in honor of Harry’s love for the Tar Heels.
Send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Harry Lee McMillan through our floral store.
