James McMillan Obituary

LAURINBURG — James Arthur McMillan of Laurinburg departed this life for his heavenly home at the age of 80 on the evening of March 27, 2025.

James was a man of many talents and always ready to lend a helping hand when needed. His presence and support will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

James was born on April 7, 1944, in Laurinburg, to the late William Harold McMillan and Gladys Adams McMillan. He graduated with the Class of 1962 from Wagram High School. On Aug. 31, 1963, James married his high school sweetheart, Anna Hasty, and they were blessed with two precious children and three grandchildren. He truly enjoyed his career with the railroad, retiring after 30 years as a conductor with CSX Corporation. James served as a former member and deacon of the Old Laurel Hill Presbyterian Church and was currently serving as a faithful member of the First Baptist Church of Laurinburg. He was recently awarded the Veterans Emblem for over 50 years of service and membership to the Laurinburg Masonic Lodge 305.

A devoted Civil War enthusiast, James enjoyed metal detecting for artifacts, amassing an impressive collection that was once displayed at the Scotland Museum. A scratch golfer, James had a deep love for the game, a passion he shared with his son, Jay. In his later years, he found great joy in his extensive stamp and coin collections. One of his happiest pursuits was working in his peach orchard, where he delighted in providing friends and family with his delicious peaches.

After his diagnosis, James found immense support and encouragement from Randy Ballard and the Health First Parkinson's Rock Steady Boxing group. James's greatest joy came from being married to his adored wife of 61 years, and being a proud father to his son and daughter. He loved his son-in-law as a son, cherished his grandchildren, and an avid baseball fan, especially enjoyed watching his grandson, Will, pitch for the Princeton Tigers.

Along with his parents, James is preceded in death by his adored grandson, David Sword; brother, Bill McMillan; sister and brother-in-law, Marshall and Debbie Milligan; sister-in-law, Barbara Sasseen; and mother and father-in-law, Walter and Martha Hasty.

James is survived by his loving wife, Anna Hasty McMillan of their home; daughter, Judi McMillan Sword and husband Bill of Cary; grandchildren, William Sword and Sara Sword; son, Jay McMillan and wife Margaret of Wagram; brother, John McMillan and sister-in-law, Lynda McMillan; sister-in-law, Milly McMillan; a host of extended family, many devoted friends, and his K9 companions, Luke and Max.

The memorial service celebrating his life will be held at 11 a.m. on April 12, 2025, at the First Baptist Church of Laurinburg, followed by a time of visitation in the church fellowship hall. The private family interment will be held at a later date.

In memory of James, the family requests donations be given to Scotland Regional Hospice or the First Baptist Church.

Funeral services entrusted to Richard Boles Funeral Service.