Mary Helen McMillan

MARY HELEN AXLEY McMILLAN, age 82 of Athens, Tenn. passed away Friday , April 3, 2026 peacefully in her home. She was a native and lifelong resident of McMinn County, a daughter of Jesse Ray and Thelma Marie Bowers Axley and preceded in death by Husband: Jimmy Hershell McMillan, Son: Michael Dewayne McMillan, and Daughter: Pamela Marie Sadler. She was a former employee of Grace Peek Florist, European Flair and retired from Goins Creations. She was a former member of Woodward Ave. Church of God and member of Highway To Heaven. She was an election worker and suported Wounded Warrior Project.

Mary Helen was an artist, she showed her love for life and people through making beautiful things. She shared her love for the Lord anytime she was given the opportunity in a peaceful yet passionate way. Her love for her family and friends had no bounds, her grandchildren and great grandchildren were her pride and joy and they brought so much light into her life. Mary Helen was a gift to this earth and her presence will be greatly missed, as she rests in the Glory of Heaven.

Survivors: Grandchildren: Madison Sadler Cooley of Athens, Tenn., Toni McMillan Rhodes of Hendersonville, N. C., , Taylor McMillian of Chattanooga, Tenn., Andy Noah Sadler of San Antonio, TX, Two Great Grandchildren: Tatum, Tyler, and Sandra Marie, Brothers: Richard Axley of Athens, Tenn., several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be 12:30 P.M. Thursday April 9, 2026 in the Chapel of Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home with Jeff Scalf officiating. Interment will follow in McMinn Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends from 11:30 - 12:30 pm prior to the service at the funeral home. Active pallbearers will be Andy Sadler, Austin Cooley, Richard Axley, Jerry Axley, Travis Axley, and David Smith.

Condolences may be sent to www.laycock-hobbs.com/notices/Mary-McMillan 

Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home, Athens, Tenn. in charge of arrangements.