George Duncan Hastie McMillan Jr., a former lieutenant governor of Alabama and lifelong public servant known for his progressive leadership and dedication to the arts, died on April 18, 2025, at the age of 81 following complications from surgery.
Born on October 11, 1943, in Greenville, Alabama, McMillan’s life was one of enduring public service, marked by his early entry into politics and his unrelenting drive to improve the state he called home. He earned his undergraduate degree from Auburn University and later received his Juris Doctor from the University of Virginia School of Law. After a federal clerkship and years practicing law, McMillan entered the Alabama House of Representatives in 1973, then served in the Alabama Senate, where he quickly became known as a forward-thinking legislator.
In 1978, McMillan was elected the 23rd lieutenant governor of Alabama, serving from 1979 to 1983. His tenure was marked by efforts to modernize state government and promote economic growth and cultural revitalization.
Governor Kay Ivey, who shared a longstanding friendship with McMillan dating back to their student government days at Auburn, paid tribute to his legacy.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former lieutenant governor and my good friend, George McMillan,” Ivey said. “He treasured being in public service and was a man of great ideas throughout his life, especially while he served our state as lieutenant governor and in the Legislature. My prayers are with him and his loved ones. He will be greatly missed!”
After leaving public office, McMillan continued to shape Alabama’s civic life. He founded the Birmingham-based cultural festival, City Stages, in 1989, transforming the city’s downtown into a hub for music and community celebration for over two decades. He also played a founding role in the Black Belt Community Foundation and remained active in legal mediation through McMillan Associates.
He is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Ann Louise Dial, their children, George D.H. McMillan III and Ann Dial Sims, and two grandchildren.
In honor of McMillan’s contributions to the state, Governor Ivey ordered flags to be flown at half-staff on the day of his memorial service. Plans for the public celebration of his life are forthcoming.
