Girtha McMillian

Departed this life, Tuesday September 16, 2009 at Rose Arbor Hospice Care, after chronic illnesses. She was born June 22, 1936 in Waynesboro, MS, the daughter of the late George D. Robinson, Sr. and Geneva Dawkins Robinson. She graduated from Riverview High School in 1955. Mother McMillian was a hard working, dedicated mother, who provided for her family. After working multiple jobs in Waynesboro, MS, she moved to Dayton, OH where she worked for Dayton Steel. In 1969, Girtha moved to Michigan where she became a member of Faith Temple Church of God, and served faithfully as a Church Mother, under the leadership of Bishop T.D. Lockett, until the time of her departure. While in Kalamazoo, she was employed at Kalamazoo Laundry from 1969 through 1977. In 1978, Girtha began working at Bronson Hospital, from which she retired after 17 years of service. After her retirement, she volunteered for Kalamazoo Senior Services for several years. Girtha was preceded in death by a sister, Mother Daisy L. King and a brother, Bishop George Robinson. Mother McMillian is survived by her loving husband of 33 years, Elder Oren McMillian; five children, Vivian (Johnson) Owens of Dallas, TX; Deniese Johnson Ray of Waynesboro, MS; Nathaniel (Denise) Johnson of Kalamazoo, MI; Dwane Johnson of Kalamazoo, MI; LeDesha McMillian of Kalamazoo, MI; two loving sisters, Juanita Taylor of Kalamazoo, MI and Mary Y. (Frankie) Taylor of Mobile, AL; three sister-in-laws, Joyce Robinson, Dorothy Young, and Clissie Barnes; one brother-in-law, James F. King; one uncle, Thomas J. (Vivian) Dawkins of Citronelle, AL; 16 grandchildren, Joe Ray; Shawnte Johnson; Isiah Thomas; Dwane Jr. and Antwan Johnson; Nickolas Johnson; Darius Gardner; Kyle, Natalie, Joshua, Kandice, Naomi, Jacob, Martin, Jerimiah Johnson and Lathesia Cross; five great-grandchildren, Ajia Johnson, Aaliya Johnson, Braeden Ray, Mia Ray, and Jayden Johnson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Also, a god-sister Georgia Bates; godchildren Troy (Shannon) Lockett, Lee (Angie) Brooks, Kizzy Bradford and Deshayne McCashy; best friend, Mary J. Naylor; and a devoted friend (like a daughter), Ana L. Johnson. Homegoing Services will be held 1:00 PM Monday at The Galilee Baptist Church, 1216 N. Westnedge, Kalamazo, MI, Bishop Tommie D. Lockett, officiating. Friends may view 6-8 PM Sunday at Faith Temple Church of God, 114 W. Allen Street, Kalamazoo, MI. Arrangements by the Harper Funeral Home, 521 Douglas Avenue, 342-1000. Interment Mt. Ever-Rest Cemetery.