Margaret McMillan

Margaret Doherty McMillan of Oak Island, NC lost her courageous battle with her long time illness on Tuesday, November 22, 2016 in her home on Oak Island with her family by her side. Margaret is survived by her husband and best friend of 51 years, Ronald (Ronnie) McMillan of Oak Island, her children, Martha McMillan Guthrie and husband Randy Guthrie of Goldsboro, and Joseph Murphy McMillan of Oak Island; grandchildren JoAnn Guthrie and Michael Guthrie of Goldsboro; sisters Maureen (Frankie) Harles and husband Harry J. Harles of Raleigh, Cornelia Doherty of Cary; numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews, family and friends. Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph Doherty and Lucille Doherty; her grandparents, Genevieve Ramey and Ellis Ramey; sisters Genevieve Dail and Mary Edward Mellette.

Margaret was born June 25, 1945 and grew up in Rocky Mount, NC and attended UNC-Greensboro. Margaret married Ronnie McMillan while they were both attending college. They were truly the love of each other’s lives. This began an adventure through life that covered nine states. Margaret accompanied and supported Ronnie on his career path but left her own mark on every place that they lived. Margaret taught preschoolers and/or served as Director of several Pre-Schools in NC and SC. Margaret was a wonderful teacher and helped influence many lives. As an educator, her proudest moments were when both her children graduated from college. In later years, Margaret owned and operated several antique stores in Michigan, Georgia and NC. Margaret was active in the church, along the way, volunteering her time and effort. Margaret made many lifelong friends wherever she went. Supporting and enjoying family, especially her grandchildren, occupied most of her time in the later years. Several years ago, Margaret and Ronnie were able to visit Scotland with their children and grandchildren to trace the footsteps of Ronnie’s ancestors. Later they were able to visit Ireland with Margaret’s sisters and brother-in-law to trace the footsteps of Margaret’s ancestors. These trips were dreams come true for both Margaret and Ronnie. Margaret will be sorely missed by her family, friends and pets.

The family gives a special thank you to Dr. Dominic Palagruto and his staff for the years of professional and compassionate care given to Margaret and her family. A thank you to EMS and Dosher Hospital. Also a thank you to the staff of Well Care and the staff of Liberty Hospice Care that provided comfort to Margaret in her home during her final days. A funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, November 30, 2016 at 12:00 noon in St Mary Catholic Church, 1000 N. Jefferson Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation in her name to St. Jude’s Children Hospital or the ASPCA.

Online condolences may be made at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com.

Peacock –Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service.

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