Shirley Stewart McMillan, 99, formerly of Beaver Falls, passed away on May 2, 2024.

She was born in Providence, Rhode Island on December 1, 1925 to T. Gordon and Ada (West) Stewart. She was preceded in death by her husband Willard McMillan and granddaughter Anna Wright. She is survived by daughters Katharine Dennis (Doug) and Marty Wright (Jonathan), and sons Scott McMillan (Jennifer) and Stewart McMillan as well as many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Shirley was only 4 years old when her mother was confined for many years to a tuberculosis sanatorium in New Brunswick, Canada. Shirley then lived with her paternal grandparents on their farm not far away.

Later on, Shirley’s stepmother, Katharine Stewart, suggested that Shirley consider attending Geneva College in Beaver Falls, which she did, graduating with a BA in Economics in 1947. She appreciated her college years very much, making lifelong friends, including one named Willard McMillan. They married in 1948, beginning a 55 year life of love and friendship together.

In their early marriage, they lived briefly in Edinburgh, Scotland where Katharine was born, then they moved to western Pennsylvania where Martha, Scott and Stewart were born. Shirley devoted herself to caring for her family, but was also active in the life of Geneva College and the Geneva RP church. She served in other settings including the board of the RP Home in Pittsburgh and several charities in the area. Shirley’s mother Ada, came to live with their family in the last years of her life.

Their home on College Hill was a lively place and countless Geneva alumni and others, young and old, will remember her home cooked meals, great conversation and advice. She helped many in need with her generosity and love. Despite many significant challenges, Shirley enjoyed life, and she was quick to laugh and could see the humor in just about everything. Her faith in Jesus and her prayer life were central to her strength throughout. When asked one time about how she handled all the difficulties, she said God had told her he would be with her around every corner.

Funeral service will be at Hill and Kunselman Funeral Home of Beaver Falls on Thursday May 9th, 2024 and visitation will be at 10 a.m. with the service starting at 11 a.m.

Burial will follow at the Reformed Presbyterian Church Cemetery of New Galilee, Pennsylvania.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Willard and Shirley Stewart McMillan Scholarship Fund at Geneva College or the Reformed Presbyterian Home in Pittsburgh.