Benjamin Charles McMillan

BENJAMIN CHARLES MCMILLAN, affectionately called "BJ" by family and Ben by all others, entered this life on February 12, 1998, and entered his eternal rest on February 15, 2024. Born in Charlotte, NC, to Benjamin Carlyle and Lisa Common McMillan, Ben was a beloved son to his parents and a loving and devoted brother to his big sister, Lindsay McMillan and his younger brother, Caleb McMillan.

As a child, Ben was a joyful, loving and sensitive. He smiled easily and was known for giving great hugs. At the age of 9, he professed faith in Christ and was baptized at Peninsula Baptist Church in Mooresville, NC. He was active in their children's ministry and grew to love the Word of God. He knew his way around the bible and in middle school was the State Bible Drill champion two years in a row. He continued to grow spiritually as part of the youth ministry at NFCC and upon graduation, he continued to find houses of worship to attend wherever he was.

Ben was a competitive scholar, athlete, and musician, balancing academic success in the classroom with stellar performance on the track and on the piano. He was an exceptional student known for his intelligence, curiosity, and diligence. As a youth he eagerly collected and spouted off facts and figures. He always wanted to learn and to be the smartest person in the room. He took great pride in his academic achievements and was rewarded for his efforts. He received an academic scholarship to several universities but chose to attend the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, where he graduated in 2020 with a degree in Electrical Engineering.

Ben started running track at age 9 with the Charlotte Flights Track Club and continued his career during his time at North Mecklenburg High and Hough High.

He began as a middle-distance runner (400m & 800m) but found his greatest success as a hurdler. He consistently advanced to the regional, state, and national levels to compete during high school athletics and youth USA Track & Field competition. Ben began piano lessons at 7 and grew to become a classically-trained pianist competing in local competitions during his high school years. More In recent years, Ben enjoyed long walks through nature trails, reading and listening to podcasts, and time with his family. Although he was reserved, he had many who called him friend.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2024 at 11:00 am at Nations Ford Community Church - 5901 Nations Ford Rd, Charlotte, NC 28217.