Thomas “Mac” Porter McMillen Jr., of Shreve, Ohio, loving husband to Shirley and proud-devoted father of four wonderful daughters, completed his earthly tour and passed away peacefully at his home on December 12, 2025.

 

Tom was born on September 29, 1943 in Wooster, Ohio, to the late Thomas Porter McMillen Sr. and Melba Quinsue (Bagwell) McMillen. He married his High school sweetheart, Shirley (Spreng), on August 23, 1963, and together they shared a rich, adventurous, and fulfilling life.

 

Growing up, Tom loved playing basketball with his brother Jeff, working on the family farm, and always had a cat nearby. He graduated from Big Prairie Lakeville High School in 1961 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Ashland College. His lifelong curiosity and passion for learning led him to complete a summer institute grant at Duke University, followed by a Master of Science degree from the University of Northern Iowa.

 

Tom dedicated 30 years to education, where his passion for science and his students never waned.   For 25 of those years, he taught chemistry and physics at West Holmes High School. He was a recipient of the Acker Outstanding Teaching Award, Director of the Science Dept. and organized numerous regional Young Science & Engineering   Fair competitions and WHHS Science club trips.  He had a knack for inspiring young minds with enthusiasm, encouragement, and a gift for making learning fun.

 

Outside the classroom, Tom’s energy and love of life were contagious. He enjoyed playing cards and golfing, and he cheered wholeheartedly for the Cleveland Indians, Cleveland Browns, and The Ohio State Buckeyes.

 

An entrepreneur at heart, Tom pursued many endeavors alongside academics. He was actively involved in 4-H, both locally and at the State level, where he passionately gardened, raised and showed horses and rabbits, he was an avid collector of John Deere tractors. He also refereed basketball, worked as an insurance agent, owned Sunny Slopes General Store, and opened a teen dance center known as The Barracks. In every role, Tom brought humor, determination, and a genuine love of connecting with people—always with purpose.

 

In retirement, Tom did not slow down. Instead, he founded McMillen Tours, organizing and escorting over 400 motor coach tours to destinations that included sporting events, live performances, and historic venues. His unmistakable voice, laughter, and charm made every trip an unforgettable adventure for those who traveled with him.

 

Tom and Shirley shared a truly venturesome journey. At the heart of it all, they raised four accomplished daughters, whom he boastfully adored. He often joked that he “only needed one more girl to form his own basketball team.” 

 

Tom cherished his grandchildren and loved taking them on trips—whether into town or on one of his many McMillen Tours destinations. He treasured every moment spent with many nephews and niece, family, and friends.

 

Tom will be remembered fondly not only by his family, but by the countless lives he touched throughout his journey—for his passion for creating fun, his boundless heart, his undying desire to organize and lead, even when his body was failing him. He never met a stranger; students and travelers alike became part of his storybook family. While his pride ran deep, Tom was never too proud to show his emotions for those he loved.
This is his legacy.

 

Tom is survived by his wife Shirley; daughters Christine (Don) Geiser, Melissa (Rob Shaw) McMillen, Beth (Sean) Starr, and Catherine (Richard Gill) McMillen; eight grandchildren; and one great-grandson.

 

He was preceded in death by his brother Jeffrey McMillen and his parents Thomas and Melba (Bagwell) McMillen.

 

Calling Hours

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at Ripley Church of Christ, 12298 CR-330, Big Prairie, Ohio 44611.

 

Funeral Service

The funeral service will take place on Friday, December 19, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Hopewell Presbyterian Church, 6900 SR 754, Shreve, Ohio 44676. Burial will follow immediately after the service. All are welcome to attend.

 

Flowers & Memorial Contributions

Flowers may be sent to Ripley Church of Christ, 12298 CR-330, Big Prairie, Ohio 44611.  

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ohio Hospice, Hopewell Presbyterian Church, or Ripley Church of Christ.

 

Assisted by Alexander Funeral Home.  Please share and find digital link of the obituary and option to share your messages directly with the family at www.alexanderfhinc.com or legacy.com.