Jim Milam

Mr. Jim Milam was born May 21, 1940 in Clarksville, Tennessee to Mayo and Emma D. Butler Milam. He departed this earthly life on Saturday, September 2, 2017 at his residence surrounded by family. Age 77 years.

Jim was a 1960 graduate of Burt High School in Clarksville, Tennessee. He continued his education on an athletic scholarship, earning an Associate Degree at Natchez Junior College and a Bachelor of Science at Mississippi Valley State University where he also lettered in basketball and track. Jim received a Master’s Degree in Health Administration from Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. He met the love of his life, Hazel E. McGlown Milam, on the campus of Mississippi Valley State University. They were married in 1964, and enjoyed over 53 years of marital bliss. Jim was a longtime member of Bethel AME Church. He retired from Saginaw High School as a teacher/coach in 1995. “Coach Milam” was the recipient of numerous awards in his long and successful career. As a coach and mentor to many in football, basketball, and track, he helped others drive toward success by his authenticity, winning philosophy, and passion. This describes only a few of the attributes he demonstrated over the years. Jim’s impact in the community as an educator/coach and brother of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated continues to be an inspiration for many whose lives are impacted by his contributions.

Those left to cherish his memories are his loving and devoted wife, Hazel E. Milam; daughter, Wendy Milam and son, Jovon (Harpreet) Milam; two grandsons, Liam and Hendersen; siblings, Florence R. Milam, Delores D. Skelton and Jake W. Milam; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Mayo and Emma D. Butler Milam; siblings, Mayo Milam, Jr., Nannie B. Johnson, William E. Milam, Mary F. Milam, Emma L. Milam, and Elizabeth Drake; and many other relatives and friends.