Robert “Bob” Maurice McMillan, a long-time resident of Dickson, Tennessee, passed away Friday, August 15, 2025 at the age of 86.
Bob was born September 15, 1938, in Erin, Tennessee, to Charlie Merton and Elsie Bell McMillan, and grew up in nearby Tennessee Ridge. He briefly attended Austin Peay State University where he met Barbara, his wife of 61 years. Bob later earned his Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Tennessee.
He served in the United States Air Force, on active duty from March 2, 1959, to July 10, 1962, and continued in the reserves until receiving an honorable discharge in March of 1965.
Bob’s professional career began with Schrader Company, which brought him and Barbara to Dickson. He later found his true calling in education, teaching drafting at the Tennessee Vocational School. He retired in July of 1999 from the State of Tennessee’s Department of Education, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and mentorship.
Beyond his professional life, Bob was deeply involved in the community. He was an active member of the Dickson Lion’s Club where he served in many roles, including President. He was also a faithful member of Dickson First United Methodist Church. Bob enjoyed cheering on the Tennessee Volunteers, playing golf, and working on his beloved farm on Rock Church Road.
Bob is survived by his daughter, Amby (Rick) Thomas; his son, Greg (Tracy) McMillan; his grandchildren, Kaitlin Kelley and Angus McMillan; and his brother, Sidney McMillan.
He was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Barbara, and seven siblings: Laurence “Mert” McMillan, Sr., Arthur “Frank” McMillan, Alexander “Bruce” McMillan, Mary Lou McMillan Rozon, Patsy McMillan Whitehurst, Kathryn McMillan and John “Jack” McMillan.
A celebration of Bob’s life will be held on Friday, August 22 at Taylor Funeral Home, 214 N Main Street, Dickson, TN. Visitation will take place from 1:00 to 3:00pm, with a private burial to follow at Union Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Alzheimer’s Association in Bob’s memory. Bob and Barbara’s Tribute page can be found at http://act.alz.org/goto/Bob-Barbara_McMillan.
