Pastor William J. Millard, Sr.

Pastor William J. “Bill” Millard Sr., 74, of New Philadelphia, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, May 31, 2016 at Union Hospital at Dover.

A son of the late Howard and Francis (Cathon) Millard Sr., Bill was born August 21, 1941 at Lansing, Michigan.

Pastor Bill studied at McKinley High School and then at St. Mary’s University and Seminary where he received his Bachelor’s of Divinity degree.  He then received his Master’s of Divinity from Grace of God University.

He served in the Lord’s Army and loved the work that he could do for his best friend and Savior, Jesus.  Over the years Bill has been a pastor, teacher, author of four books and many Bible studies.  Pastor Bill had a ministry sending Bible studies and Bibles to missionary and prison chaplains.  His hobbies included fishing and NASCAR.  Bill was an avid animal lover and he and his wife, Betty, were active in the prevention of animal cruelty as well as child abuse.

Pastor Bill is survived by the love of his life, his wife, Betty (Harper) Millard.  He is also survived by two daughters, Tonya Starkey of Florida and Cherie (Terry) Wisenbarger of Minvera; a son, Wayne (Heather) Millard of St. Louisville, Ohio; 15 grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; two sisters, Wilma Dazey of Canton and Marjorie (Jack) Waers of East Canton; two brothers, Howard (Kim) Millard of Kentucky and Danny (Judy) Millard of Louisville and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins,

He will be missed by his beloved pet friends, George, Baby Girl, Sweetie and Puffy.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; his second mother who raised him, Marjorie (Hattery) Millard; two sons, William “JR” Millard Jr. and John “Jay” Myers Jr.; an infant daughter, Tina M. Millard and a sister, Debra Royer.

In keeping with Bill’s wishes private visitation and services will be held in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the William Millard Memorial Fund c/o Directions Credit Union, 1127 4^th Street NW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.