Barbara A. Millsap

Barbara A. Millsap obituary, Waterford, MI

Barbara A. Millsap

Barbara Millsap Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Coats Funeral Home - Waterford on Oct. 9, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Barbara A. Millsap (née Wojtylo) passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, at the age of 85. She was the beloved wife of the late Claude Millsap, Jr., and the devoted sister of John "Jack" Whittier.
Born in Detroit to John E. and Irene (née Turowski) Wojtylo, Barbara was a woman of grace, intellect, and remarkable talent. She earned her bachelor's degree from Michigan State University and went on to complete a master's degree at Wayne State University. A passionate social worker and counselor, she retired after 20 years at Bloomfield Hills Andover High School, where she was deeply respected by colleagues and students alike for both her professional excellence and compassionate spirit.
Barbara's life was rich with adventure and purpose. She lived in Alaska, Hawaii, and California, embracing each place with curiosity and commitment. In Anchorage, she made a lasting impact as a licensed Clinical Social Worker and served as Director of the state's largest clinic. She and Claude were also actively engaged in Alaskan politics and counted among their friends three former governors and other influential leaders.
Barbara will be remembered for her elegance, warmth, and wisdom. Her radiant energy, genuine kindness, and insightful guidance touched the lives of many - from family and neighbors to friends, coworkers, and the countless students who continued to reach out with gratitude long after graduation. Her presence was a gift, and her absence will be deeply felt.
Funeral mass will be held Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at 10 AM at Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church, 5481 Dixie Hwy, Waterford. Family will receive friends Tuesday 4-8 PM at COATS FUNERAL HOME-WATERFORD and Wednesday at church 9:30 AM until time of mass. Burial will be at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly on Wednesday 1 PM. Those wishing to attend must arrive at the cemetery at 12:45 PM. Memorials may be made in Barb's memory to Tunnel to Towers Foundation. To post a tribute, visit www.CoatsFuneralHome.com.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Barbara A. (Wojtylo) Millsap, please visit our floral store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Barbara's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Barbara Millsap's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Barbara Millsap's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?