Barbara McMillan

Barbara Ann McMillan, an adoring wife, a loving mother, amazing Nah Nah, and a special friend passed away on January 10, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Barbara was known for her ironclad strength, fortitude, warmth, and unconditional love. She was a rock for many, a nurturing place to turn to when life's unexpected turns happened, or just a warm hug when needed. Barbara was a selfless caretaker by heart and often took on the tough role of caring for those in need who were not able to do so themselves. She sacrificed her own needs and desires for the sake of those she loved, giving fully and without condition. She faced many challenges along the way with courage and pure determination, never giving up the good fight for her family and grandchildren.

She enjoyed traveling and boating with her husband as well as settling in on the couch for those good ole' Georgia games. Where she was known to be keeping score of that heart rate and trying to keep him calmed down. She found pure joy in her grandchildren and looked forward to attending any of their school functions and activities. One of her most fondest memories being making Christmas cookies with them. Her life lit up for them and through them and now will forever be a part of them.

Barbara is preceded in death by her loving father, James Walker Ware; her loving mother, Lillian (Tolley) Ware; and her beloved brother, Jimmie Lamar Ware (Bubba) and Jewell C (Meme) McMillan.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Lenward McMillan, whose love and support never waivered; her daughter, Tonya (David); granddaughters, Jacelyn (12) and Sadie (5); grandson, Liam (3); blended family, Alecia McMillan Deal; grandson, Chance (14) and Lyndsay McMillan Waldhour(Carroll); granddaughter, Carolyne (11) and grandson, Parker (11); Father-in-law L.D. McMillan, her two sisters-in-laws, Angie McMillan Steinhaus (Craig) and Connie McMillan; as well as her beloved puppy Bella.

Pallbearers will be Chance Deal, Parker Waldhour, Corey Woods, Carroll Waldhour, Jonathan Bragg, Michael Woods, and Charles Tanksley.

Officiating Dr. Charlie Cooper. 

The funeral service will be held at 12:00pm on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at Thompson Strickland Waters, Joiner Anderson Chapel. The family will receive friends one hour before service.

Interment will follow the service in Screven Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to St. Jude's Children Hospital, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital 501 St. Jude’s Place Memphis, TN 38105