Thelma McMillan

Thelma L. McMillan, age 91, of Chillicothe, passed away on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria.

Thelma was born on September 15, 1933 in Peoria, IL to Francis and Erma (Doran) McFarden. She married James P. McMillan on February 14, 1953 in Pekin, IL. He preceded her in death on December 29, 2009. Also preceding her death is her parents and her sister, Joann Barnett.

Surviving are her children, James McMillan of Princeville, IL, Rebecca McMillan of McAllen, TX, Joe (Katrina) McMillan of Chillicothe, IL and Susan Drissi of Normal, IL; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren with one great-grandchild on the way. Also surviving are her siblings, Carol (Don) Connor of Chillicothe, IL, Jack McFarden of New Mexico, and Gerry (Marian) McFarden of Creve Coeur, IL; and many nieces and nephews.

Thelma was the owner and head teacher of the Big Apple Nursery School for over 20 years and was the secretary at St. Edward Catholic School. After retiring, Thelma worked with special needs children as a paraprofessional and subbed for other classes throughout the IVC School District. She was a member of St. Edward Catholic Church and regularly volunteered for Helping Hands. Thelma enjoyed gardening, reading, traveling and was a wonderful seamstress.

Cremation rites will be accorded and a celebration of life will be held at a later date along with burial of ashes at Chillicothe City Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Weber-Hurd Funeral Home in Chillicothe.