John D. Milam

John Milam, age 82, of El Dorado passed away Wednesday, January 10, 2024. Like a true cowboy, John “died with his boots on”. John is survived by his children, Laura Driggers of Fayetteville, Lisa (Mark) Malone of St. Louis, Lynne (Joe) Tamanini of Indianapolis, and John Rodney Milam of El Dorado; grandchildren Jon Michael Driggers, Shelby Boone, Nick Tamanini, Ryan Tamanini, Katie Malone, Claire Malone and Ben Milam; brother James Harold Milam (Beth) of Idaho Falls, Idaho, and sister Marilyn Milam Hoskins, of Lincoln, Nebraska.

John was born in Union County to Harold and Mildred Milam. He grew up in Montana and Colorado and attended Colorado State University. Following the death of his father, John moved back to El Dorado to start his own company, Milam Construction. John grew his small business into a one of Union County’s largest employers and a pillar of the community.

Later in life John returned to his love of horses and took up Team Penning on a semi-professional basis. He immensely enjoyed annual trail rides in the Pecos Mountains of Sante Fe, New Mexico with the Chuck Wagon Trail Riders. Wanting to return to the lifestyle of a rancher that had captured his spirit as a teenager, John established Draggin’ M Ranch in 1998. Today the Draggin’ M has grown into one of the most successful Brangus breeding cattle operations in the country under the management of Grady Green. John was proud to be named Breeder of the Year in 2015 by the International Brangus Breeders Association.

John relished his role as a civic leader providing countless jobs at a variety of businesses in town and serving on several boards including First Financial Bank for over 20 years. John touched the lives of so many in the community with his friendly nature and genuine interest in helping others. He was especially proud of his contributions to the Murphy Arts District. John will be remembered not only for his generosity but also his kindness and fun-loving spirit.

A celebration of life will be held at the First Financial Music Hall at the Murphy Arts District on Friday, January 19th from 3:00 pm –5:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the charity of your choice or The John Milam Memorial Fund with The Union County Community Foundation, PO Box 148, El Dorado, Arkansas 71730.