Michael Lee McMillian

Michael “Mike” Lee McMillian, born on June 6, 1951, in Tompkinsville, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at home on October 22, 2025, in Smiths Grove, Kentucky. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend who touched the lives of many during his time on earth. 

Mike worked hard all his life. He spent many years with Eaton and later as a supervisor at Dana Corporation. Before that, he proudly served in the United States Army. Outside of work, music was one of Mike’s greatest passions. He loved playing guitar, writing songs, and performing, whether on his own or as the lead singer with local bands. Music was his way of connecting with people, and his voice and spirit brought joy to many over the years.

Mike bled blue. He loved his Wildcats and never missed a game, football, basketball, or anything in between. He’d tailgate like a pro, yell at the TV like the coach could hear him, and lived for March Madness every year. If Kentucky was playing, you knew where to find him. Mike also adored his cats. He took in strays that wandered up and treated every one of them like they belonged. Momma Cat was his closest companion, wherever he was, she wasn’t far behind. His lap was never empty, and he’d rather stand than wake a sleeping cat. That was just Mike: kind, patient, and full of heart.

If you knew Mike, you knew his laugh. He loved to joke, tease, and tell stories, the kind that made everyone around him feel lighter. He was happiest when the grill was hot, a good steak was sizzling, and his family and friends were gathered around the table. He’d light up seeing everyone enjoying his food, and there was always more than enough to go around.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sherry Jo Howard McMillian; his children, Michael Frazier McMillian (Toni), Amber Mitchell McMillian Hodges (Chuck), Alastral Guardian, Amy Jo Wininger (Evan), and Crystal Codner (Verdine); and his cherished grandchildren, Patricia Paige Turner (Hunter), Robert Nathaniel Simpson (Ashleigh), Harley Gabriel Hodges, and Oliver Depetro. He is also survived by his siblings, Delmus McMillian (Connie), Nancy Tudor (Tony), and Terry McMillian (Theresa), along with several nieces and nephews.

Mike was preceded in death by his father, Rue McMillian; mother, Geneva Cain Hagan; first wife, Patricia Gayle Wiley McMillian; brother, Gary McMillian; and his father and mother-in-law, Harley and Delzia Wiley. His passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew him. 

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 26, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at A.F. Crow & Son Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 3:00 PM, with burial taking place at Union #2 Cemetery in Nobob, Kentucky. 

Michael Lee McMillian will be remembered for his big laugh, his kind heart, and the joy he brought to everyone around him. He had a gift for making people feel welcome, and his warmth will live on in the stories, songs, and memories he leaves behind. Though he’s no longer with us, his spirit will always be felt, in the music he loved, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave so freely