Marilyn McMillan, a lifelong resident of Centralia, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at the age of 92 at DePaul Hospital in Bridgeton, MO, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on November 23, 1932, in her beloved hometown, she was a cherished mother, Grams, friend, and community member. She is the daughter of Eugene Gorman and Velda (Brumfield) Gorman.
On May 13, 1956, she married the love of her life, Ellis “Bud” McMillan, and they shared 58 wonderful years together before he passed away on December 22, 2014.
Marilyn dedicated over 31 years of her professional life as an Administrative Assistant at Centralia High School, where she was a valued colleague and made a lasting impact on countless students and staff.
In her personal life, Marilyn was known for her warmth, generosity, and community spirit. She loved entertaining her wide circle of friends on Friday and Saturday nights and was a proud member of a Bridge Club in her younger years. Her passion for sports was evident in her unwavering support for the St. Louis Cardinals and the Centralia Orphans, and many joyous hours were spent watching golf and baseball. Above all, she cherished her role as “Grams” and was happiest when surrounded by her family.
A large part of Marilyn’s life was spring, summer, and fall weekends at Lake Centralia with family and friends. Her greatest joy was watching her grandkids and great-grandchildren enjoy swimming, paddle boarding, skiing, tubing… and boat rides.
Marilyn was a devoted 83-year member of the First Presbyterian Church in Centralia, where she served as an elder and formed many dear friendships. Her church community was a source of great joy and support throughout her life.
Marilyn is survived by her children: Lisa Pennock and husband George Triefenbach of Belleville; Jami Elmore and husband Gary of Walnut Hill; Bud McMillan of Centralia; and Mike McMillan and wife Kim of Centralia. Also left to honor her memory are her grandchildren: Thomas Swartwout and wife Arielle of Lexington, KY; Hailey Swartwout of Atlanta, GA; Whitney Middendorf and husband Todd of Nashville; Mitch Elmore and wife Manju of St. Paul, MN; Taylor Scism and his fiance’ Jennifer of Morrison, CO; Elliot McMillan of Atlanta, GA; Madison McMillan of Fort Collins, CO; Megan Marcum and husband Lance of Centralia; and Andrea Walton and husband Andrew of Centralia. Additionally, she leaves behind a loving niece, Nancy Stedelin-Todd and husband Sam Todd of Eddyville, KY, and 14 great-grandchildren.
Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, Eugene and Velda Gorman, her beloved husband, Ellis “Bud” McMillan, her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Iva and Ellis McMillan, her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Joan and Tom Stedelin, and her nephew Tom Stedelin II.
Funeral Services for Marilyn McMillan will be held Friday, August 8, 2025, at noon at the First Presbyterian Church in Centralia with Pastor Ed Evans officiating. A visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025, from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm at the church. Burial will follow at Elmwood Cemetery in Centralia. In memory of Marilyn, memorial donations may be made to the First Presbyterian Church in Centralia and will be accepted by the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home at 235 North Sycamore Street in Centralia, IL 62801 (618) 532-3523, who is honored to be of service to the McMillan family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home’s Facebook page.
