Ernest "Ernie" McMillan, age 96, passed away on February 7, 2026. He lived in Mason, NH with his daughters Tina and Penny and Penny's husband Larry, and was cared for at Southern New Hampshire Medical Center.
Born in June 1929, Ernie was the son of the late Marshall and Bertha (Hopkins) McMillan. He was the devoted husband of Patricia McMillan, the love of his life and favorite dance partner, who predeceased him. He was also predeceased by his sons, Robert and Michael McMillan, siblings, Roland and Avis.
Ernie is survived by his children: Linda Miller of Dana Point, CA; James and Linda McMillan of Woburn, MA; Tessie and John O'Donnell of Fort Myers, FL; Sally and Mike L'Antigua of Kingston, NH; Tina McMillan of Mason, NH; Penny and Larry Belanger of Mason, NH; Patty and Paul Giallongo of Wakefield, MA; Susan and Dan Robson of Ashburnham, MA. Ernie leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, and many nieces and nephews who will keep his memory alive for years to come.
Kind, compassionate, and hardworking, Ernie was always ready for a friendly conversation - especially about gardening, where he loved sharing tips and stories. A devoted reader, he enjoyed talking about whatever book he was immersed in. Most of all, he cherished time with his family and found deep joy in celebrating life's moments with them.
Ernie was a dedicated and hardworking man who spent the majority of his career as a machinist. In the later years of his professional life, he transitioned into quality control, where his attention to detail and commitment to excellence were deeply valued. Alongside his full-time work, Ernie also held a second job at the Burlington Cinema for many years. That role brought him tremendous joy, as it allowed him to share his love of movies with his family - treating them to the latest Disney and family films that became cherished memories.
Ernie also proudly served his country in the United States Army stationed in California during the Korea War.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to gather and visit with the family at the Fellowship Bible Church, 71 Center St., Burlington, on Friday, February 27th, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. with a service beginning at 11 a.m. Services will conclude with Military Honors and burial at Woodbrook Cemetery, Woburn. Arrangements by the McLaughlin - Dello Russo Funeral Service of Woburn.