Shirley (Stewart) Mcmillan Obituary (1925

Shirley Stewart McMillan, formerly of Beaver Falls PA went to be with her Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ on May 2, 2024. She was born in Providence, RI on December 1, 1925 to T. Gordon and Ada (West) Stewart. Shirley was only 4 years old when her mother was confined for many years to a tuberculosis sanatorium in New Brunswick, Canada. Shirley then lived with her paternal grandparents on their farm not far away. Later on, Shirley's stepmother, Katharine Stewart, suggested that Shirley consider attending Geneva College in Beaver Falls PA, which she did, graduating with a BA in Economics in 1947. She appreciated her college years very much, making lifelong friends, including one named Willard McMillan. They married in 1948, beginning a 55 year life of love and friendship together. In their early marriage, they lived briefly in Edinburgh, Scotland where Katharine was born, then they moved to western PA where Martha, Scott and Stewart were born. Shirley devoted herself to caring for her family, but was also active in the life of Geneva College and the Geneva RP church. She served in other settings including the board of the RP Home in Pittsburgh and several charities in the area. Shirley's mother Ada, came to live with their family in the last years of her life. Their home on College Hill was a lively place and countless Geneva alumni and others, young and old, will remember her home cooked meals, great conversation and advice - she helped many in need with her generosity and love. Despite many significant challenges, Shirley enjoyed life - she was quick to laugh and could see the humor in just about everything. Her faith in Jesus and her prayer life were central to her strength throughout. When asked one time about how she handled all the difficulties, she said God had told her he would be with her around every corner. She was preceded in death by Willard and granddaughter Anna Wright. Surviving family members include daughters Katharine Dennis (Doug) and Marty Wright (Jonathan), and sons Scott McMillan (Jennifer) and Stewart McMillan; also many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Funeral service will be at Hill and Kunselman Funeral Home, Beaver Falls, PA on Thursday May 9th; visitation will be at 10am and the service at 11am. Burial will follow at the Reformed Presbyterian Church Cemetery, New Galilee PA. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Willard and Shirley Stewart McMillan Scholarship Fund at Geneva College or the Reformed Presbyterian Home in Pittsburgh.