Thomas Avery McMillin

Thomas Avery McMillin, 88, of Montgomery, Texas, went to be with the Lord on August 26, 2026. He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to family and community will be deeply missed. Tom was born on July 22, 1938, in Abilene, Texas, to Ellis Avery McMillin and Vera Jarret. He graduated from Abilene High School in 1956 and Hardin-Simmons College in 1960 before enlisting in the United States Army. A lifelong outdoorsman, Tom was an avid hunter and fisherman who possessed a natural spirit of teaching and mentorship. He was particularly passionate about firearm including high-powered rifle, skeet, and BB gun programs, primarily through 4-H. His dedication to teaching safety, responsibility, and respect for the outdoors touched generations of young people. Thomas had a lifelong love of games, particularly bridge, dominoes, and cards. He was a patient and generous bridge instructor and an outstanding “42” player, sharing his knowledge, skill, and enjoyment of these games with family and friends. Following four years of active military service, Tom worked at NEMCO in Abilene while continuing his military career in the Army Reserves. He ultimately retired from the Army as a Lieutenant Colonel. In 1991, Tom joined Bandag, where he continued his career until his retirement in 1998. He and his beloved wife, Mary Jane, then moved to Lake Whitney, where they lived full time and devoted themselves to their community. Tom helped found the White Bluff Chapel and served as a volunteer firefighter with the White Bluff community, continuing his lifelong tradition of serving others. Tom was an active and devoted member of his church. He especially treasured time spent with his grandchildren, who eagerly looked forward to summer Vacation Bible School each year with their beloved “Papa Tom” and “Granny Jane.” His love, guidance, humor, and example will remain a treasured part of their lives. Tom is survived by his children and extended family: Cullen McMillin and wife Mikea; Selena McMillin; Kelena Walker and husband Doug; Thomas McMillin, Jr. and wife Jenny; Brent Wolfe; and Steven Velderman. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and his brothers, Billy McMillin and Joe McMillin, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Jane; his parents, Ellis and Vera; his brother, George McMillin; and his children, Amy Velderman and Marlena Sargent. Tom leaves behind a legacy of service, faith, family, mentorship, and love of the outdoors. He will be remembered not only for the many roles he filled throughout his life, but for the countless lives he touched through his willingness to teach, serve, encourage, and give of himself. Military Honors A service with military honors will be held at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery in Dallas, Texas, on Friday, September 4, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Family and friends are encouraged to arrive by 9:40 a.m. to line up for the service. Celebration of Life A Celebration of Life will be held at White Bluff Chapel in Whitney, Texas, on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. Tom’s family invites all who knew and loved him to join them in honoring his remarkable life and celebrating the lasting legacy he leaves behind.

Thomas Avery McMillin

July 22, 1938 - August 26, 2026