John T. Millay, 87, of Philpot, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at the Heartford House. John was a professional painter before retiring after 6l years. His coordination was so good he never “taped off ” and was equally talented with either hand. His color perception was amazing. John was a baseball fan – especially the St. Louis Cardinals – and collected baseball cards since he was a child. He also enjoyed NASCAR and fishing. But most of all, he was a bowling enthusiast, a sport he excelled at. He bowled nine 300 games and was the first person in the area to bowl back-to-back 300 games, held a state record with an 845 series. John was inducted into the Owensboro Hall of Fame and the National Hall of Fame in St. Louis.
John was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Millay and Mary Edna Hines Millay; two brothers, Larry Millay and Charles Millay; and sister, Mary Lee England.
John is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Sharon Sapp Millay; and his special pet, Sysco Kid; sisters, Linda Millay, Dorothy Harl, and Jo Ann (Gene) Harl of Owensboro and Francis (Lee) Bidwell of Glasgow; brothers, Bill (Marsha) Millay and David (Mary) Millay of Owensboro; 24 nieces and nephews; and two special sisters-in-law, Barbara Richards and Paula Sapp of Owensboro.
There will be a public Celebration of Life from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024, at James H. Davis Funeral Home and Crematory. Private graveside services will be held in Bethabara Cemetery.
The family wishes to express their appreciation for the loving warmth and compassion shown to John and them by the angels of mercy at the Heartford House. They request in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Heartford House, Hospice of Western Kentucky, 3419 Wathens Crossing, Owensboro, KY 42301.