LaNelle Garner McMillen of Columbus, MS, passed away on June 21, 2026, in Brevard, NC, after a sudden illness.  LaNelle was born on January 9, 1937, in Buena Vista, MS, to Ara Mae & Robert C. Garner. She lived an idyllic childhood there surrounded by her parents, her “favorite” brother, Robert, & various aunts, uncles, cousins, & lifelong friends.

LaNelle graduated from Houston High School, where she was the state spelling bee champ, and attended MSCW.  While a freshman, she met the love of her life, Bobby McMillen of Pontotoc, at the Goose on campus. They married on August 24, 1957, and moved to Dallas, TX. She completed her degree at Texas Women’s University and gave birth to the first of four children, Lynne.

After a move to Columbus where Bobby was employed by American Bosch, she gave birth to three more children, Lisa, Robert, & Brad. She devoted herself to her family, becoming involved in everything from scouts & classroom activities to Sunday School.

LaNelle received a grant when the children were older to attend MSCW and earned a master’s degree in elementary education. She devoted over 30 years of her life to teaching young students in Lowndes County, instilling a love of reading and learning.

LaNelle’s greatest loves were her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She poured love into everything she did for them: having arts & craft centers when they came to visit, playing the piano, taking them on trips, and cooking their favorite treats.  She was adored by each one.

LaNelle is preceded in death by her late husband, Bobby, and her two sons, Robert & Brad. 

Survivors include her daughters, Lynne (Bill Rosamond) of Columbus, MS and Lisa (Clay Sykes) of Brevard, NC.  Grandchildren include Julia Rosamond; Morgan, Jordan, & Jake Sykes; Rachel McMillen; & Hunter McMillen. Great-grandchildren include Hadley Gott, Cooper Gott, & Harper McMillen.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of LaNelle will be held on July 5, 2026, at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbus, MS. Visitation will be at 1:00 pm, and the service will begin at 2:0O pm. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in her honor may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.