In Loving Memory of James McMillan Jr.

James McMillan Jr., lovingly known as Uncle Jim, was born on January 16, 1957, in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois. On July 5, 2025, he passed away peacefully in Custer, South Dakota, enveloped in the warmth of his devoted family and friends, leaving behind a legacy as rich and enduring as the land he cherished.

A true legend, Uncle Jim was an artisan whose creative spirit shone through in every facet of his life. Renowned for his breathtaking body paint artistry, he captivated hearts with bold, imaginative designs that told stories of beauty and passion. Yet, it was his masterful leatherwork that truly defined his craft. With meticulous care, Jim hand-carved intricate designs into leather, transforming raw hides into works of art that reflected his deep connection to tradition and creativity. Each piece, whether a belt, saddle, or keepsake, bore the mark of his skillful hands and boundless imagination, earning him admiration as a true master of his trade.

A man of profound faith, Jim found spiritual solace at Mountain View Baptist Church in Custer, South Dakota (www.mountainviewbaptistcuster.com), where he was saved and baptized, grounding his life in love and devotion. His faith guided him through life's joys and challenges, illuminating his path with purpose.

On October 23, 1983, Jim married his soulmate, Cassandra, and their honeymoon in the majestic Black Hills sparked a lifelong love affair with the region. Drawn to its rugged beauty, they settled on a historic ranch west of Custer, where they built a life rooted in harmony with nature. There, Jim tended to his beloved herd of free-range bison, a collection that was more than a livelihood—it was a testament to his reverence for the American West and its wild, untamed spirit. His bison roamed freely across the rolling plains, embodying the freedom and strength that Jim himself exuded.

Jim was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Cassandra, and his parents, James and Frances McMillan. He leaves behind a vibrant legacy carried on by his daughter, Kristin McMillan; his sisters, Michelle Roles and Patricia McMillan; his nephew, Joe D. Roeder; and his nieces, Holly Glowa and Dawn Adamczyk.

Now reunited with Cassandra in Heaven, Jim's spirit continues to inspire through the artistry he created, the land he nurtured, and the love he shared with those fortunate enough to know him. His hands, once busy carving leather and guiding bison, now rest, but his legacy endures in every intricate design and open field he left behind.

A private family service will be held to celebrate his extraordinary life.

Memorial services will be held 4:00 p.m., Friday, July 18, 2025, at Mountain View Baptist Church in Custer, South Dakota.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Chamberlain McColley's Funeral Home in Custer, South Dakota.