John J. Millard, Jr., age 78, passed away leaving a legacy of kindness, service, and laughter. He was the beloved husband of Kathleen (nee Herda), with whom he shared a rare and enduring devotion. Even after years together, John remained as smitten with Kathy as the day they first met. He cherished every moment spent by her side, whether they were embarking on an adventure or simply enjoying the quiet of home, and he never truly wanted to be separated from her.

He was a devoted father to Cynthia Meadows (Mark), Douglas Millard, and Laura BaMakhshab (Mohammed), and the proud grandfather of Anna and Joseph Meadows, Abdulazeez, Omar, Isa and Layla BaMakhshab. The son of the late John Sr. and Ruth Millard, John is survived by his siblings Brenda Finney (Tom) and Daniel Millard, and reunited in peace with his late brother, Tom.

He was also a caring stepfather to Suzanne Hall (Ron LaFollette), Sandra Hunt (Earl), and Marissa Andrews (Mike Szojka), and a step-grandfather to Heather Thornton (Austin), Emily Blair (Corbin), Alyssa Hunt, and Jessica Hunt, and step-great grandfather to Sophia and Aria Thornton and Leo, Noah and Owen Blair.

John dedicated several decades to the Akron Public Schools as an Information Management Coordinator, where his work ethic and gentle spirit were legendary. An avid skier, he found great joy in leading school ski trips and sharing the slopes with Akron students. At home, he was the ultimate “Mr. Fix-It,” always the first to arrive with a tool and a helping hand for any family member, neighbor or friend in need.

Above all, John was a selfless family man who consistently put the needs of others before his own. Whether through his sharp wit, a perfectly timed joke, or his unwavering support, he brought light and fun to every room he entered. Nothing filled his heart with more happiness than spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He lived for their celebrations, thrived when included in their activities, and always sought to share new experiences with them. His warmth and humor will be deeply missed by all who knew him.