Samuel Casey McMillen was a light to all who knew and loved him. He was devoted to his family and friends, and he was always quick to offer encouragement, prayers, and a smile that could brighten any day.

Casey went to his heavenly home on May 15, 2026, at the age of 41. He wore many titles as a beloved family member, friend, teacher and coach, but none as important to him as husband and father. He will be remembered for his kindness, love, and service to others through his family, school, church, and community.

Casey was born to Ann Brickle McMillen and Thomas William McMillen on November 20, 1984 in Ringgold, GA. He joined his older sister, Jessica, and was surrounded by a loving community of family and friends. Casey attended Ringgold High School, where he excelled at both football and baseball. Following graduation, he continued his scholastic and athletic pursuits at Shorter University, where he played baseball and went on to obtain a B.S. in Education. He shared his love for both academics and athletics as an educator and coach at various schools in Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. He was a very proud special education teacher at Mt. Holly Middle School in Mt. Holly, N.C. and assistant baseball coach at Stuart W. Cramer High School in Belmont, N.C. Both his students and players brought him great joy, and he championed all of their successes.

Casey’s greatest love was his wife, Jessica McMillen, his unborn daughter Annie Mae, and his two “bonus” children, Junior and Gabby. His joy over fatherhood, and excitement for the upcoming arrival of his daughter, was evident to all with whom he encountered.

Casey was also a loving brother to his sister Jessica (Jacob) McMillen Parker and proud uncle to his two nieces, Anna Grace and Mary Chandler Parker.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Ann McMillen.

Additionally, he is survived by numerous family and friends in both Gastonia, N.C. and Ringgold, GA, as well as South Carolina.

The family will receive friends on Friday, May 22, 2026 from 1:00 - 4:00 P.M. at Pleasant Grove Presbyterian Church, 6701 Pleasant Grove Road, Charlotte, NC. A service of remembrance and celebration will also take place at the church on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 12:00 P.M.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Casey to the Stuart Cramer Baseball Team. Donations can be made by sending a check to the school with “Stuart Cramer Baseball in memory of Casey McMillen” in the memo line. Stuart W. Cramer High School, 101 Lakewood Rd, Belmont, NC 28012.

Posted as a courtesy for the family.  Carothers Funeral Home, Stanley, NC is assisting the family.