James W. McMillen

James W. (Jim) (Mac) McMillen, age 85, a lifelong resident of Sheffield, Pennsylvania, passed away on March 14, 2026, at Warren General Hospital. Born on May 31, 1940, in Nebraska, PA, Jim was the son of the late Wendell W. McMillen and Mary (McClellan) McMillen. From his earliest days, Jim carried with him the values of hard work, integrity, humor, and service—principles that would guide him throughout his life.

Jim was a proud graduate of Sheffield High School, Class of 1958. Shortly thereafter, he answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Army, where he honorably served for six years. His dedication to service did not end when he returned home; instead, it became the foundation of a lifetime devoted to his community.

A respected businessman, Jim served as President of the former McMillen Lumber Company in Sheffield, PA, and Irwin Wood Products in Garland, PA. Through his leadership in the lumber industry, he earned the respect of colleagues and peers alike and maintained active membership in the National Hardwood Lumbermen’s Association and the Penn-York Lumbermen’s Association.

Jim’s commitment to Sheffield was unwavering. He served as a Sheffield Township Supervisor, was a trustee of the Wendell W. McMillen Foundation, a board member of Kane Community Hospital, and a board member of the Sheffield Cemetery Association. He was a proud member of the Sheffield Rotary Club, an honorary life member of the Sheffield Volunteer Fire Department, and an active member of the American Legion. Jim also found camaraderie and friendship through the Warren Moose Club, Lakewood Rod & Gun Club, Sheffield Investment Club, and the Warren PA Caregivers Group for Alzheimer’s.

On August 16, 1985, Jim married the love of his life, Rebecca R. “Becky” (Weaver) McMillen. That marriage marked one of the most defining choices of his life. Jim embraced Becky’s children as his own, never seeing “his” and “hers,” but simply family. Together, Jim and Becky shared a life filled with laughter, dancing, and unforgettable road trips across the country with dear friends. In his later years, Jim’s character shone brightest as he lovingly and steadfastly cared for Becky, serving as her constant support with quiet strength, never complaining and never asking for help—a final, beautiful testament to his unselfish soul.

Left behind to cherish Jim’s memory are Jim (Tammy) Swanson of Pittsburgh, PA; Chris (Michelle) McMillen of Sheffield, PA; Paulette (Marty) Grove of Sheffield, PA; Kevin (Launa) McMillen of Virginia Beach, VA; and Mike Swanson of Warren, PA. His greatest joy came in his role as “Pop-Pop,” a title he wore with immense pride. He shared an inseparable bond with his grandchildren: Christian (Emily) McMillen, Rebecca (Adam) Kostka, Jake (Kesha) Grove, Nick Swanson, Reed Swanson, Emily (Joshua) Griffith, and Raegan and Peyton McMillen. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Anneliese Grove, Roman Kostka, and Nikolai Grove, each of whom brought him tremendous happiness.

Jim is survived by his sister Joyce Olson; sister-in-law Sherry McMillen; brother-in-law Fred Roell, all of Sheffield, Pa and several nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his faithful companion, Micky, who rarely left his side.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Becky; his parents; a brother, William, in infancy; his brother Bob McMillen; his sister Gloria Roell; and his stepson Jeffery Swanson.

Jim was known for his quick wit and perfectly timed one-liners—always ready with a clever or slightly mischievous remark that kept everyone laughing. His humor drew people to him, but it was his strength of character that earned the lasting respect of the community. He lived by a simple rule: always put others first.

Outside of work and service, Jim enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. He was an avid Cleveland Browns fan and longtime season ticket holder, as well as a loyal Cleveland Indians/Guardians fan. He loved all things golf and was a member of Blueberry Hill Golf Club, the longtime organizer of the Sheffield Open golf tournament, and co-organizer of the annual Myrtle Beach golf trips. Jim also enjoyed bowling leagues and tournaments, playing cards with friends, meticulously caring for his lawn, and indulging his love of snacks and desserts. Evenings often found him happily settled in front of the television watching Let’s Make a Deal, Wheel of Fortune, or Gunsmoke.

Jim’s life was one of service, laughter, loyalty, and love. He leaves behind a community better for having known him and a family forever shaped by his steady presence and generous heart.

Jim’s family will welcome family and friends on Thursday, March 19, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Sheffield United Methodist Church, 11 West Main Street, Sheffield, PA. Visitation will also be held on Friday, March 20, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by an 11:00 am funeral service officiated by church Pastor Mark Schwanke and Pastor Ruth Ann Varatto, presiding.

A private family committal will follow at the Sheffield Cemetery, with full military honors accorded by the Sheffield and Clarendon VFWs, the Warren American Legion Honor Guard, and representatives of the United States Army.

A luncheon will follow at the Sheffield United Methodist Church, hosted by the ladies of the Sheffield community churches.

Memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s honor to the Sheffield Volunteer Fire Department, 318 S. Main Street, or the McKean County SPCA, 80 Glenwood Ave, Bradford, PA 16701.

To leave an online condolence for James W. “Jim” “Mac” McMillen, please visit www.bordenfuneralhome.com.

The McMillen family has entrusted all arrangements to the care of the Borden Funeral Home, 203 West Main Street, Sheffield, PA.

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