McMillan Funeral Home Obituaries

A Legacy of Compassion and Care: McMillan Funeral Home

Located in the heart of Lumberton, North Carolina, McMillan Funeral Home has been a beacon of hope and comfort for families in their time of need. With a rich history and a commitment to providing exceptional service, this esteemed funeral home has earned a reputation as one of the most trusted and respected in the region.

A Tradition of Excellence

For generations, McMillan Funeral Home has been dedicated to helping families say goodbye to their loved ones with dignity and respect. Their experienced team of funeral professionals takes pride in providing personalized attention to every detail, ensuring that each service is a meaningful tribute to the life being celebrated. From traditional funerals to cremation services, McMillan Funeral Home offers a range of options to suit every family's unique needs and preferences.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Brenda Lee Atkinson - April 15, 1959 - April 07, 2022

Departed: 04/07/2022 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: Brenda Lee Atkinson age 61 passed Thursday at Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton, N.C. She was born April 15, 1959 in Horry County and has been a resident of Wilmington, N.C. for many years and also a resident of Scotland Neck in northeastern North Carolina. She is survived by a daughter Kristie Skinner of Dewitt, Virginia and a son Vinson Keith Atkinson of Dinwiddie County, Virginia. Funeral services are being handled by McMillan Funeral Home of Lumberton, North Carolina, and for additional information call 910-739-3735.

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Leroy Palmer - Unknown - April 07, 2022

Departed: 04/07/2022 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: Leroy Palmer a former resident of the Clyburn Pines community of Lumberton, North Carolina passed Thursday at the Coliseum Rehabilitation Center in Hampton, Virginia. Funeral services will be held on Friday April 15, 2022 12 noon at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel in Newport News, Virginia. Viewing will be from 9a.m. to 12:00 noon. Interment will be in Hampton Memorial Gardens. Palmer was a military veteran and the husband of Gwen McNeill Palmer of Red Springs, North Carolina and was an active member of Panthersford Presbyterian Church in Red Springs, N.C.

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Robert Andrew Wright, Jr. - August 14, 1970 - April 04, 2022

Departed: 04/04/2022 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: Robert Andrew Wright, Jr. age 51 of Lumberton passed recently at Southeastern UNC Hospital in Lumberton, North Carolina. He was a native of New York and the husband of Valerie Wright of New York. Funeral services are being handled by McMillan Funeral Home of Lumberton, North Carolina and you may call 910-739-3735 for additional information.

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Freddie Lee McShan - November 18, 1947 - March 30, 2022

Departed: 03/30/2022 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: Freddie Lee McShan age 74 of East 13th Street Lumberton, North Carolina passed Wednesday night. He was a native of Sumter, South Carolina and was a former resident of Baltimore, Maryland, and was the husband of Carolyn McShan. For additional information you may contact McMillan Funeral Home of Lumberton, North Carolina.

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Alice Faye Slate - January 14, 1940 - February 25, 2022

Departed: 02/25/2022 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: Alice Faye Surratt Slate passed Friday at her residence in Dillon, South Carolina. She was a native of Virginia and a former hosiery mill employee and the mother of Richard Surratt of Dillon, South Carolina, Patricia Knowles of Virginia, and Ricky Surratt of Mt. Airy, North Carolina.

For additional information call McMillan Funeral Home in Lumberton, North Carolina at 910-739-3735.

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Stephen Seaman III - September 09, 1949 - February 25, 2022

Departed: 02/25/2022 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: Stephen Seaman, III age 72 of Dutchess County, New York died recently in Lumberton, North Carolina. He was the owner and operator of Seaman Automotive Clinic in New York and was the husband of Ellen Seaman. Funeral mass was held on Monday. For additional information you may call McMillan Funeral Home.

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Melaneo Carranza Izaguirre - March 11, 1975 - February 21, 2022

Departed: 02/21/2022 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: Melaneo Carranza Izaguirre of St. Paul's, North Carolina died recently at UNC - Southeastern Hospital in Lumberton, North Carolina. He was a native of Honduras.

For additional information on funeral services and final rites you may call McMillan Funeral Home in Lumberton, North Carolina at 910-739-3735.

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Otniel Diaz Mejia - September 15, 1979 - February 19, 2022

Departed: 02/19/2022 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: Otniel Diaz Mejia age 42 died suddenly in South Carolina while with his employment group. He was a native of Honduras and had been a resident of Baltimore for several years.

For additional information on services you may call McMillan Funeral Home in Lumberton, North Carolina.

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John John William Meer - February 06, 1969 - February 03, 2022

Departed: 02/03/2022 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: John John William Meer 53 of Lovette Road Lumberton, North Carolina, a native of New York passed on Thursday at UNC - Southeastern Hospital in Lumberton. He was a carnival technician for the Southeastern Agricultural Fair in Lumberton and the North Carolina State Fair in Raleigh for several years. Funeral arrangements are by McMillan Funeral Home of Lumberton, N.C.

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Arnold Dwight Clayburn - Unknown - January 29, 2022

Departed: 01/29/2022 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: Arnold Dwight Clayburn age 73 passed recently in Greensboro, North Carolina. He was a former resident of Lumberton, N.C. and is the husband of Lillian McIntyre Clayburn and the father of Michelle Clayburn of Raleigh, N.C., Linwood Clayburn of Lumberton, and Tremain Quincy Clayburn of Florida. Clayburn was a veteran of the U.S. Army and served in the Army Reserves for many years, and was a former employee of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Funeral services will be 1p.m. Monday at Elizabeth Heights Cemetery in Lumberton. For additional information call McMillan Funeral Home in Lumberton, N.C..

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David Lee Oxendine, Sr. - Unknown - January 28, 2022

Departed: 01/28/2022 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: David Lee Oxendine, Sr. age 74 passed recently at UNC - Southeastern Hospital in Lumberton, North Carolina. He was a former resident of First Baptist Homes of Marion Road in Lumberton. For additional information on services call McMillan Funeral Home in Lumberton, North Carolina.

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Carolyn Q. Coleman - Unknown - January 26, 2022

Departed: 01/26/2022 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: CAROLYN Q. COLEMAN GREENSBORRO — Carolyn Q. Coleman, 79, a member of the Guilford County Board Commissioners with a history of activism across the southeast, died Wednesday night. She was known for her "Firebrand" activism and a life of challenging racial inequalities dating to her childhood in Savannah, Georgia, where she was among the first arrested in sit-in demonstrations. Her educational development was at Savannah State University and A&T State University. Commissioner Coleman was a member of the National Board of the NAACP for 28 years, and served two terms as a special assistant to former Gov. Jim Hunt. She was a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Commissioner Coleman served 20 years on the Guilford Country Board of Commissioners, where she advocated for Guilford County's Feeding the Communities Program, which provided 8,000 boxes of food for families in need, and she also fought for county employees to receive a $15 per hour wage. She also was a former chairman of the Board of Commissioners. For additional information, contact McMillan Funeral Home of Lumberton.

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Robert Johnson - January 20, 1972 - January 10, 2022

Departed: 01/10/2022 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: Robert Johnson of Lumberton, North Carolina transitioned on Monday morning at Southeastern UNC Hospital in Lumberton, N.C. He was born January 20, 1972 in Miami (Dade Co) Florida. He was a former employee of Mountaire Processing Plant. Funeral services will be held Saturday 1 P.M. at Thompson Chapel Baptist Church Cemetery. A viewing will be held 12:30 - 1:00 prior to the services. He was the husband of Nicole W. Johnson and the son of Beulah Hawkins of Lumberton, N.C.. For additional information call McMillan Funeral Home in Lumberton, N.C..

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Mary Alice Thatch - July 06, 1943 - December 28, 2021

Departed: 12/28/2021 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: A true warrior for justice and equality has been called home. Mary Alice Jervay Thatch passed Tuesday December 28, 2021. She was the editor and publisher of the Wilmington Journal Newspaper in Wilmington, North Carolina following in the footsteps of her father. Funeral services will be conducted on Wednesday 1p.m. at Good Hope Baptist Church in Knightdale, North Carolina. Interment will be in Carolina Biblical Gardens in Raleigh, N.C.

RALEIGH —Mary Alice Jervay Thatch, a true warrior for equality and justice, was called from labor to reward on Dec. 28, 2021 at Duke University Hospital in Durham.

Her early religious affiliation was with the St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Wilmington and she received her initial educational training in the Wilmington and New Hanover County school system. She received her bachelor's degree in business education from Elizabeth City State University, cum laude, and master's degree from UNC Greensboro. Further studies were done at Ohio State University.

Mrs. Thatch was editor and publisher of the Wilmington Journal newspaper in Wilmington since 1996, following in the footsteps of her father and the Jervay Family, who have owned and operated for over 100 years. Under her leadership the paper continued its tradition of being a strong voice for Wilmington's African American community, and across southeastern North Carolina.

However, it was in 2011 when she convinced the National Newspaper Publishers Association, of which she was a member and her father formerly had led, to advocate for North Carolina to pardon the Wilmington Ten, the 10 North Carolina civil rights activists falsely convicted of firebombing a white-owned grocery store in 1971. All 10, including the leader, Rev. Ben Chavis, were sentence to over 200 years in prison and had spent the last 40 years with the false convictions attached to their names.

In 2012, she led a team of Black journalists, attorneys and activists in uncovering proof that the Ten were originally framed. She also led a campaign that garnered over 150,000 petition signatures asking the Gov. Beverly Perdue to grant pardons of innocence to the Ten.

On Dec. 31, 2012, as the last thing she did leaving office, Gov. Perdue indeed issued 10 pardons of innocence to the Wilmington Ten, thus clearing their names. The official act cleared their names and made worldwide news. However, it all started with the unmatched determination of a single Black newspaper publisher. Mary Alice Thatch was honored as Publisher of the Year by the NNPA the following year in the finest tradition of Black Press advocacy.

She was a life member of the NAACP; member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority; Wilmington Chapter of Links Inc., a service organization; and a strong advocate for housing in New Hanover County and Southeastern North Carolina.

Mrs. Thatch along with Rev. Ben Chavis hosted the documentary film "Pardon of Innocence" at the Historic Carolina Civic Center in Lumberton in February of 2018, at which time two Black pioneers were recognized, the late Maude Humphrey Blount and the late Lawrence Stephens.

Funeral Services were held at 1 p.m. Wednesday at New Hope Baptist Church in Knightdale. Interment was in Carolina Biblical Garden in Raleigh.

Surviving is her husband, Rev. John L. Thatch; three daughters, Robin Thatch Johnson, Shawn J. Thatch, and Johanna Thatch-Briggs; seven grandchildren; and a great-grandchild, DeShaury Allen of Lumberton.

For additional information, contact McMillan Funeral Home of Lumberton, N.C.

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Rosa Lee Abson - January 23, 1955 - December 17, 2021

Departed: 12/17/2021 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: Rosa Lee Abson age 66 of Lumberton passed on Friday December 17, 2021 at UNC - Southeastern Hospital in Lumberton, North Carolina. She was a native of Darlington, South Carolina and had resided in New York for many years. She was the daughter of the late Elijah Abson and Josephine Abson. Among her survivors are three daughters Keisha Sneed, Shawntaya Abson, and Nina Abson - Campbell all of New York. For additional information contact McMillan Funeral Home in Lumberton, North Carolina.

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Shirley Schmale - Unknown - December 09, 2021

Departed: 12/09/2021 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Shirley Schmale, 48, of Pembroke, North Carolina, departed this life on December 9, 2021. Shirley is preceded in death by her grandfather, Sam Locklear, her grandmother, Lizady Locklear, her mother, Gerelene Locklear, a son, Tony Schmale Jr., and a loving aunt, Nettie Locklear. Mrs. Schmale is survived by her husband Tony Schmale; her father, Paul Locklear; four sons, Holden A. Locklear, Christopher W. Locklear, Daniel L. Schmale, and Brent A. Schmale, all of Pembroke, North Carolina; ten grandchildren, fourteen nieces, three nephews; five great nieces; three great-nephews; one sister, Chanel Locklear; two brothers-in-law; a close family associate, Eric Locklear; and a host of relatives and friends.

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Allen Gordon Thompson - December 22, 1948 - December 06, 2021

Departed: 12/06/2021 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: Allen Gordon Thompson ll (named after his grandfather Rev. Allen Gordon (AG) Thompson) was the second child of Harris Gordon Lafayette Thompson and Ethel Beatrice Warren Thompson. He was born on December 22, 1948, in Lumberton and departed this life on December 7, 2021, at Wake Medical Center in Raleigh. He died peacefully after a long illness.

Gee was a child of South Lumberton. He worked on his grandparents' farm with his brothers and cousins. After graduation from South Lumberton Elementary School he moved to Goldsboro with his family where he started as an undersized guard on the Dillard High School football team. What he lacked in size, he made up with heart.

After completing high school, Gee attended NC A&T State University where he and his friends established the DC Shifters Social Club (many of the members were from Washington, DC). Before finishing, Gee was drafted into the Army and sent to Viet Nam where as an infantry platoon leader he courageously led many missions. Gee returned to the states after the death of his grandmother. He moved with his family to Hartford, CT and later to Binghamton, NY. While in Binghamton, he found work at IBM as a courier and was especially proud of the trophy he earned as a guard with the championship basketball team.

Gee moved to Raleigh and completed his education at Saint Augustine's College. Though he worked sporadically, he was eventually declared 100% disabled by the VA (Veterans Administration). After his parents developed more significant health issues, he returned to South Lumberton where he lived with his parents in the family home on Side Street.

Gee loved cigarettes, music, jokes, Pepsi, and family (particularly the young) and talking to other veterans. Though infirmed, he never lost his smile or his sense of humor. All who knew him were impressed by his unconditional generosity and high regard for others. He would literally take the shirt off his back if he thought you needed it.

Gee grew up in Hilly Branch Baptist Church, but believed that lslam was the true religion for the Black man. He believed in one God - - and studied both the Bible and the Quran diligently. He was thought of and praised for what many considered him to be - as a good teacher. Gee was always open to sharing his knowledge with anyone who was willing to listen.

Gee is survived by a brother Bradford (Dorothy) Thompson of Raleigh, a sister Veleria (Louis) Ramos of Durham, a brother Cedric Thompson of Garner, and a foster brother Willie (Wendy) McKay of Jacksonville, FL. He is also remembered fondly by his nieces and nephews Tommy, Nikki, Justin, Stephen, Devon, Latoya, Yalitza, Evan, Angeni and Molefi. He was also adored by his grandnieces, his grandnephew, along with his many beloved cousins and friends. He enjoyed his frequent phone calls to his Aunt Lorine, Aunt Melba, and Cousin Georgevea (that will be long remembered by that generation). Gee was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Vinson DeVon.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday 1 P.M. at the Thompson Family Cemetery McDonald Road in the Hilly Branch Community of Lumberton, North Carolina. Services will be officiated by Rev. Bernard Spates. Family will receive friends from 12:30 P.M. to 1 P.M. prior to the services. For additional information contact McMillan Funeral Home of Lumberton, North Carolina at 910-739-3735.

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Dorothy McMillan Harris - Unknown - December 01, 2021

Departed: 12/01/2021 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: Dorothy McMillan-Harris age 78 passed from labor to reward on Sunday November 28, 2021 at Duke Medical Center in Durham, NC. She was the daughter of the late Dred McMillan and the late Lula Bobbitt McMillan, and was a descendant of the McMillan family of St. Paul's, North Carolina, who migrated to Durham in the late 1800's and early 1900's. Her father was instrumental in numerous highway and street construction projects in Durham County. She is survived by a daughter Navonda Harris of Winston-Salem. Final rites will be Sunday 2 P.M. at Holloway Memorial Chapel Durham, North Carolina. Funeral arrangements are by McMillan Funeral Home.

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Wilbert Lee Cain - December 05, 1946 - November 28, 2021

Departed: 11/28/2021 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: Wilbert Lee Cain age 74 passed on Sunday November 28, 2021. He was the son of the late Sadie Mae Cain and the late William Cain, Sr. Final rites will be held on Sunday December 5, 2021 1p.m. at Greater New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, 172 Plainview Drive, Lumberton, North Carolina. For additional information call McMillan Funeral Home, of Lumberton, North Carolina.

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Ella Alda Morris - July 10, 1942 - November 24, 2021

Departed: 11/24/2021 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved family matriarch, Ms. Ella Alda Morris, who passed away peacefully on November 24 at Moore Regional Hospital. Ella was a second generation funeral director, and was owner and operator of Morris Home in Laurinburg, North Carolina for over forty years. An avid reader and lover of higher education, she graduated from Fisk University with a Bachelor’s degree, and additionally earned a master’s degree from Columbia University in New York. She was a Golden Life Member of her beloved sorority, Delta Sigma Theta and is survived by her loving niece and caregiver, Wendy Morris; two nephews: Harold Morris III and Cedric Morris; a sister-in-law: Bettye Morris; a cousin: Rebecca Boyd, and a host of other family and friends who loved her dearly. To God be the glory! A celebration of life will be held on December 1, 2021 at Bright Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church in Laurinburg, North Carolina. Interment will follow immediately after the service at Cedar Grove Cemetery—The Reverend Garland Pierce Sr., officiating. Professional services entrusted to Morris Funeral Home of Bennettsville.

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Thomas Lee Barnes - November 21, 1954 - November 19, 2021

Departed: 11/19/2021 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: Thomas Lee Barnes of Red Springs passed November 19, 2021 at his residence. He was the husband of Judy Elkins Barnes. Final rites were conducted by McMillan Funeral Home of Lumberton, North Carolina.

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Charles Williams, Jr. - July 03, 1939 - November 12, 2021

Departed: 11/12/2021 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: Charles "Charlie" Williams, Jr. departed this earthly journey on November 12, 2021 at UNC - Southeastern Hospital in Lumberton, North Carolina. He was a native of Brooklyn, New York and was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. Williams also was a former employee of Department of Defense, and a senior data employee in the Bay Area transit system in California. Funeral arrangements will be announced by McMillan Funeral Home of Lumberton, North Carolina.

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Mildred Miles Sampson - Unknown - November 09, 2021

Departed: 11/09/2021 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: Mildred McLean Miles Sampson, 90, transitioned on Nov. 9, 2021. She was a native of the Elrod Community of Rowland, and was the daughter of the late Henry Williams McLean and Shadie Ballard McLean. She attended Beauty Spot United Methodist Church during her early years and joined Mt. Zion AME Church in Trenton, New Jersey upon locating to New Jersey. She was a descendent of the Ballard family of Lumberton, N.C. Funeral services were at 11 a.m. Friday at Mt. Zion AME Church in Trenton, New Jersey and interment was in the Brig. Gen. William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Ameytown, New Jersey. For addition information, call McMillan Funeral Home in Lumberton, N.C.

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Carnell Butler, Sr. - April 30, 1951 - November 06, 2021

Departed: 11/06/2021 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: Carnell Butler, Sr. age 70 transitioned recently at UNC-Southeastern Hospital in Lumberton, North Carolina. Butler was a native of Detroit Michigan and was the son of the late Anna Brown Butler and Ivey Butler. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and was a retired maintenance supervisor from several education systems in Michigan. He was a singer and entertainer for many years. You may contact McMillan Funeral Home of Lumberton, NC for additional information on services.

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William Junior Ransom - December 03, 1926 - November 05, 2021

Departed: 11/05/2021 (Lumberton)

Obituary Preview: William J. Ransom age 94 a native of the Deep Branch Community of Robeson County died recently at UNC Southeastern Hospital in Lumberton, North Carolina. He was born December 3, 1926 in Robeson County. He was employed in the construction field for many years and was a long time member of Westend Baptist Church in West Lumberton. He was the widower of the late Lillian Ransom. William is survived by a brother Gerdell Ransom of Pembroke, two sisters Jo Ann Ransom of California, Mattie Ransom of Fairmont; a granddaughter of his late wife, Tina Lee of Lumberton. Funeral and burial services will be held Friday November 12, 2021 noon at Lumbee Memorial Gardens. Arrangements by McMillan Funeral Home of Lumberton, NC.

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A Comforting Presence in the Community

McMillan Funeral Home is more than just a business – it's an integral part of the Lumberton community. For years, they have been actively involved in local organizations and charities, demonstrating their commitment to giving back to the people they serve. This dedication to community outreach sets them apart from other funeral homes and underscores their genuine concern for the well-being of those around them.

A State-of-the-Art Facility

The funeral home's facility at 1980 Martin Luther King Jr Dr is a serene and welcoming space, designed to provide comfort and solace to families during difficult times. The beautifully appointed chapel, visitation rooms, and reception areas are perfect for hosting memorial services, funerals, and gatherings of all kinds. Ample parking and easy accessibility ensure that everyone can participate in the celebration of life.

Personalized Services Tailored to Your Needs

At McMillan Funeral Home, every family is treated like family. Their compassionate staff takes the time to listen to your needs, concerns, and wishes, working closely with you to create a personalized service that honors your loved one's memory. From selecting music and flowers to choosing the perfect casket or urn, they guide you through every step of the process with kindness and understanding.

Cremation Services with Dignity

For those who prefer cremation, McMillan Funeral Home offers a range of options to suit every family's needs. From direct cremation to full-service cremation with memorialization, their experienced team will help you navigate the process with sensitivity and care. They understand that cremation is a personal choice, and they're committed to providing dignified and respectful services that meet your expectations.

Pre-Planning: A Gift to Your Loved Ones

While it may seem difficult to think about planning for one's own passing, pre-planning can be a thoughtful gesture that brings peace of mind to both you and your loved ones. McMillan Funeral Home offers pre-planning services that allow you to make informed decisions about your final arrangements, ensuring that your wishes are respected and your family is spared from having to make difficult choices during a time of grief.

A Commitment to Supporting You Through Grief

Losing a loved one is never easy, but with McMillan Funeral Home by your side, you don't have to face the journey alone. Their caring staff is dedicated to supporting you through the grieving process, offering resources and guidance as you navigate the days ahead. From bereavement support groups to online grief resources, they're committed to helping you find healing and closure.

A Legacy That Continues

As you consider funeral homes in Lumberton, NC, remember that McMillan Funeral Home is more than just a provider of funeral services – they're a trusted friend and neighbor who cares deeply about the people they serve. With their unwavering commitment to excellence, compassion, and community involvement, they've earned a reputation as one of the most respected funeral homes in the region. Trust them to help you honor your loved one's legacy with dignity, respect, and love.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It is usually published in a newspaper, online obituary platform, or funeral home website to inform friends, family, and community members of the person's passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also providing important information to those who need to know about the passing. They can help facilitate communication among family and friends, provide closure, and offer a sense of community during a difficult time.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, the family of the deceased or a close friend writes the obituary. In some cases, a funeral home or obituary writer may assist with writing the obituary.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include information about the funeral or memorial service.

How long does it take to write an obituary?

The time it takes to write an obituary can vary depending on the complexity and length of the obituary. On average, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours to write a well-crafted obituary.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and funeral homes allow you to include one or more photos of the deceased in the obituary. This can be a meaningful way to personalize the tribute and help others remember the person.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Most newspapers have an online submission process or a contact person who handles obituary submissions. You can usually find this information on the newspaper's website or by calling their office directly.

Is there a cost associated with publishing an obituary?

In most cases, yes. Newspapers and online obituary platforms typically charge a fee for publishing an obituary. The cost varies depending on the length of the obituary, the number of publications, and other factors.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it's been published?

Sometimes, but it depends on the publication or platform. If you need to make corrections or changes to an already-published obituary, contact the publication or platform directly to see if it's possible.

How long does an obituary stay online?

The duration that an obituary remains online varies depending on the platform or publication. Some online obituary platforms keep tributes online indefinitely, while others may remove them after a certain period.

Can I create an online memorial for my loved one?

Yes! Many online obituary platforms offer features that allow you to create a permanent online memorial for your loved one. This can be a comforting way to remember and celebrate their life.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's passing, usually including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a longer, more detailed tribute that celebrates the person's life and accomplishments.

Can I include quotes or poems in an obituary?

Absolutely! Including meaningful quotes or poems can add depth and personality to the obituary. Just be sure to obtain any necessary permissions or credits for copyrighted material.

How do I handle sensitive or private information in an obituary?

If you're unsure about including certain information in an obituary, it's best to err on the side of caution and exclude it. You may also consider consulting with family members or close friends before finalizing the text.

Can I include charitable donations or memorial funds in an obituary?

Yes! Many families choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial funds in lieu of flowers. This can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased and support a worthy cause.

What if I'm not comfortable writing an obituary myself?

If you're struggling to write an obituary or need guidance, consider reaching out to a funeral home or professional obituary writer for assistance. They can help you craft a beautiful tribute to your loved one.

How do I ensure accuracy in an obituary?

To ensure accuracy, double-check facts such as dates, names, and spellings before submitting the obituary. It's also a good idea to have multiple people review the text before publication.

Can I include humor or anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Including lighthearted moments or humorous stories can help celebrate the person's personality and make the tribute more relatable and engaging.

What if I need to correct errors in an already-published obituary?

Contact the publication or platform directly as soon as possible to report any errors. They will work with you to correct the mistakes and republish the revised obituary.

Can I create an audio or video tribute in addition to a written obituary?

YES! Many online platforms now offer options for creating multimedia tributes that combine music, images, and spoken words. These can be powerful ways to celebrate your loved one's life.

How do I share an online obituary with others?

You can share online obituaries through social media platforms, email, or messaging apps. You can also copy and paste the link into messages or emails for easy sharing.

What if I want to keep my loved one's memory private?

If you prefer not to publish an public-facing obituary, you can still create a private online memorial or share memories with close family and friends through personal messages or social media groups.

Are there any specific guidelines for writing an LGBTQ+-inclusive obituary?