Lettie McMillan

(From Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary)

Lettie Louise McMillan, 99, was called to eternal rest with her Lord and Savior on October 9, 2025, following an extended illness.

A lifelong servant of Jesus Christ, Lettie was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Edward Christmas and Audrey “Virgie” Stinnett Harlow on September 20, 1926. As a small child, she could be found sitting next to her grandmother (the church mother), on a small stool every Sunday at the Church of God in Christ on the corner of Furnace and School in Joplin, Missouri—a location affectionately known in the Black community as “Hot and Knowledge.”






Lettie’s life was profoundly shaped by the loss of her mother at a young age. She was lovingly raised by her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Stinnett, and shared a special bond with her grandfather, who fondly called her “Boss.”

Lettie graduated from Lincoln School in Joplin in 1946 and married Reverend Macon McMillan, Sr. two years later on June 15, 1948, in Bentonville, Arkansas. Their union was blessed with five children.

Lettie was a true reflection of Proverbs 14:1: The wise woman builds her house.” She built her home with quiet strength, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to God and her family. Her home was a place of peace, order, and Godly care. As a devoted and trusted caregiver, Lettie lovingly looked after many children over the years, imparting the same patience, wisdom, and faith-filled guidance that defined her life. Many generations were blessed by her care.

Lettie was most herself within the comfort of her home. She found joy and strength within those familiar walls, and her gentle spirit touched everyone she met. Many came to know Lettie simply as “Granny,” a name spoken with love across the world. She also made the best pies and lemonade!

As one of Joplin’s oldest Black residents, Lettie was a quiet guardian of East Town history—a living bridge between past and present. She carried the legacy of many generations through the names, places, and stories she told. Her family will honor the baton of history that has been entrusted to them and carry it forward to the next generation. Lettie will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Lettie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Reverend Macon McMillan, Sr.; brothers, James F. Harlow and Dr. Lloyd Harlow; her grandson, Dwayne McMillan; and an infant sister, Floretta Marie.

Lettie is survived by her sons, Macon McMillan, Jr. of Wichita, Kansas, Marvin McMillan of Joplin; her daughters, Judi, Janet, and Joyce McMillan, all of Joplin; grandchildren, Michael, Taya, and Angelique McMillan; numerous great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, and a host of extended family and friends.

Funeral services are planned for Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary in Joplin, Missouri with visitation starting at 9:30 a.m. up to service time. Burial will follow at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery in Joplin.




In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Medical Loan Closet of Joplin or Watered Gardens Ministries, both in care of the mortuary.




Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.