MCMILLAN, LILLIE MARIE, 73 , passed away peacefully on March 17, 2025, at Sandpiper Bay Healthcare in Wichita, surrounded by the love of her family. Lillie was born on March 19, 1951, in New York, NY, to Carlton and Rosemary (Carman) Thomas, one of twelve children. Her early years were filled with adventure as the family moved frequently, living in Michigan, Missouri, and Arkansas before settling in her favorite place — Corpus Christi, Texas.

Lillie married young and devoted herself to raising her four children, pouring her heart into building a warm and loving home. As her children grew, Lillie found a new chapter waiting for her. At the age of 38, with courage and determination, she returned to school, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Montgomery Community College. She then followed her heart and pursued her passion for art, completing a Bachelor of Arts in Art from the Kendall School of Art and Design. With her deep love for creativity and helping others, Lillie spent over 27 years teaching art therapy, touching the lives of countless students and inspiring them to find healing and expression through art.

Lillie had a special connection to nature. She loved being outdoors, collecting rocks from her many travels, and finding peace in the simplicity of a barefoot walk through a stream — though she preferred to keep her feet wet rather than swim. Berry-picking and mushroom hunting were among her favorite pastimes, and she found joy in the quiet moments spent surrounded by nature's beauty.

A true light in any room, Lillie's sense of humor and lively spirit made her the life of any gathering. She had a gift for finding humor in even the most ordinary moments, and her laughter was infectious. Singing, dancing, and playing games with family and friends brought her immense joy, and she had a knack for making everyone feel welcome and cherished.
After retiring, Lillie continued to explore her creative side, focusing on her love for painting, especially landscapes. Her talent as a professional commercial artist was evident in the beauty and emotion captured in her work. Her paintings reflected her vibrant spirit and deep appreciation for the world around her.

Lillie's greatest pride and joy were her family. She is survived by her children Dale Race, Frank Race (Tricia), Kim Estes, Bill McMillan, Jr., and Haylee; 16 grandchildren; and 4 great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind her siblings Margaret Race, Jeannie Oaks, Dawn Patillo, and Rena Gaston, along with many other family members and dear friends who will miss her dearly. Lillie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William McMillan, Sr.; her daughter, Trisha; her parents, Carlton and Rosemary; and her siblings Richard Thomas, Rena Thomas, Lou Thomas, Sharon Arnold, Kathy Arnold, William Thomas, and Julie Gaston.

A memorial gathering to celebrate Lillie's life will be held on June 28, 2025. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Lillie's honor to the Kendall School of Art and Design to establish a scholarship in her name, continuing her legacy of creativity and compassion.

Lillie's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, laughter, and creativity. Her warmth, humor, and unwavering strength will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.