Howard D. McMillan was born on July 10, 1945, in Hardaway, Florida, to the late Douglas Sr. and Rebecca McMillan. On his transition from this life, he leaves behind a powerful legacy of hard work, generosity, craftsmanship, and unwavering love for his family and community.

Howard was a proud and dedicated employee of the Dade County Stone Paving Company, where he worked faithfully for 20 years until his retirement. A man who believed deeply in the dignity of labor, Howard took immense pride in a lifetime spent working with his hands. His gifts were evident in many of his accomplishments, including his own home—which he built not once, but twice. This remarkable achievement stands as one of his proudest projects.

His devotion to community was equally strong. Howard played an essential role in laying the groundwork for a local school in Miami that now bears his name, Howard D. McMillan, a lasting testament to his commitment to future generations.

Howard was a devoted husband, father, brother, and pillar of strength to all who knew him. His life was characterized by resilience, humility, and an unwavering love for family.

Early in adulthood, Howard married Petronia Ann White of Mobile, Alabama. From this union, they welcomed five beautiful children. Later in life, he met and married Regina McCollum, and together they built a new chapter that brought two more sons, completing his loving family.

Howard leaves to cherish his memory seven sons: James McMillan (Katherine) of Miami, Florida; Howard McMillan Jr. (Tressia) of Jacksonville, Florida; Shadrick McMillan (Melissa) of Rome, Georgia; Davaughn McMillan of Miami, Florida; Cory McMillan of Miami, Florida; Howard David (Barbara) of Monticello, Florida; and Timothy McMillan (Stephanie) of Columbus, Georgia.

He is also lovingly remembered by three daughters: Martha Ann McMillan of Marianna, Florida; Tracy Robinson (Derrick) of Quincy, Florida; and Debra Peterson of Columbus, Georgia.

Howard’s memory will also be cherished by his siblings, who loved him deeply: Ruby Archie Madry of Orlando, Florida; Takreem McMillan of Hollywood, Florida; Maryam McMillan-Sweet of Auburn, Alabama; Christine McMillan of Chattahoochee, Florida; Arleen Wright of Orlando, Florida; Shirley McMillan (Alexander) of Chattahoochee, Florida; Lessie McMillan of Tallahassee, Florida; Lucy McMillan (Herman) of Tallahassee, Florida; Carl McMillan of Des Moines, Iowa; Samuel McMillan (Verdell) of Tallahassee, Florida; Forrest McMillan (Debra) of Chattahoochee, Florida; and Joe Lee McMillan (Cynthia) of Quincy, Florida.

Howard was blessed with a large and loving family, including 40 grandchildren, 80 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will continue to honor his memory.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Douglas Sr. and Rebecca McMillan; his son, Tony Anthony McMillan; and siblings Tyrone McMillan, John B. McMillan, Douglas McMillan Jr., Luretha McMillan-Young, and Chester Lee McMillan.

Howard will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his steadfast devotion to family, and the kindness he extended to all he encountered. His memory will forever live in the hearts of those he loved, and his legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched.

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