Stephen Albert McMillan, age 80, born in Mobile, AL and a resident of Foley, AL died Thursday, April 28, 2022 at his residence. Steve lived a full life.
He grew up in the rural community of Stockton where children were-- and still are--raised by the community, the church, and family. It was there that he learned to fish and enjoy the outdoors riding in his goat wagon.
At one time, he was an influential real estate broker. In 1980, he gave that up to serve in theAlabama House of Representatives. He stayed in that legislative position until his retirement in 2022, earning the title of “Dean of the House.”
He married Gayle Will in 1987. He was “Grampsey” to six incredible and loving grandchildren.
The greatest tragedy of his life was the loss of his daughter Adrienne. He will be buried next to her and his parents John Murphy and Matie T. McMillan in the Stockton Cemetery.
Kathy Bryars, his business associate for more than 40 years, describes him as someone who saw the good in people-- even when they did not deserve it. Linda Boyington laughs over his always telling her, “I’m glad you got to see me.” At home, he loved to share stories and laughed harder than anyone at his own jokes. Each of you probably has some memory of him that is special.
He will want to be remembered for his service to Baldwin County. He has a massive list of accomplishments. Ironically, he is most likely to be remembered for passing legislation that allows dogs in the outdoor patio areas of restaurants.
Steve was often referred to as a “walking encyclopedia” on any given subject. He stored huge amounts of information in his head and always did his homework before taking a position on an issue.
Many times, innovative ideas were his, but he made no effort to take credit for them. He was very humble and modest. Many times, others had to “toot his horn” for him.
His wife wants him to be remembered for his love of God. To him, his legislative work was a ministry. He was truly a servant of the people. His favorite hymn was “How Great Thou Art” which he sang slightly off-key every time he and Gayle were in the car together.
Steve loved the expression that people who do good deeds earn stars for their crowns. Dr. Robert Jeffress, pastor of First Baptist in Dallas, says that the Bible teaches that heaven will not be the same for everyone. Some people will receive real, tangible rewards and privileges. For all that he has done for others, Steve is sure to be among those.
He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Gayle Payne McMillan of Foley, AL; two sons, Scott (Nicole) Will of Fairhope, AL and Jason (Diana) Will of Birmingham, AL; two brothers, John M. (Kathryn) McMillan, Jr. of Montgomery, AL and Philip (Suella) McMillan of Stockton, AL and six grandchildren, Mary Frances Will, Margaret Ann Will, Matelyn Scott Will, Wiley McMillan Burns, Jonathan Cooper Will and Cameron Will.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, May 7, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. at Gulf Shores Methodist Church. Inurnment will follow at Stockton Memorial Cemetery at 4:30 p.m.
The family will receive friends Saturday, May 7, 2022 from 1:00 p.m. until the 2:00 p.m. service at Gulf Shores Methodist Church.
In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to, Pilots for Christ, took Steve to MD Anderson and provides free flights to all who need medical attention, P.O. Box 707 Monroeville, AL 36461; Alabama School of Math and Science, founded by Steve via legislation, 1255 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36604 or to North Baldwin Animal Shelter, founded and operated by Red and Judy Wilkins P.O. Box 190 Bay Minette, AL 36507.
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