Keith “K-Mac” McMillen

Keith Lee McMillen, 79, of Carthage, IL, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2026, surrounded by his family at Memorial Hospital in Carthage.

Keith, the youngest of three boys, was born on September 10, 1946, in Keokuk, Iowa, to Eldon and Velma (Speer) McMillen. He was a devoted son, loving brother, father, Papa, and great grandpa.

He was a simple man who found joy in the things that mattered most—his faith, his family, and his friends. He loved Jesus deeply and lived his life guided by kindness, generosity, humility, and compassion. He was a loyal friend; he never met a stranger and was a great storyteller. His pride and joy were his three girls, his grandkids, and great grandson who he said, “he is quite the boy.” Each grandchild thought they were Papa’s favorite, and truth be told, they all were.

His passion was driving a semitruck, something he did up until recently. He drove for FS, Walmart, and most recently the Basco Elevator. He logged over 7 million, accident-free miles over the years and made friends too numerous to count while driving a truck. His trucking career is a reflection of his hard work, dedication, and commitment. He could frequently be heard saying, “When there is freight to be hauled, there is freight to be hauled.”

Keith was preceded in death by his parents, Eldon and Velma McMillen; his brother, Weldon McMillen; his niece, Robin (McMillen) Runge; and his nephew, Ross McMillen. He is survived by his three daughters: KaDee (Jared) Shutwell, Kara (Ryan) Ruffcorn, and Kelly (Kevin) Carlson. He was a proud and loving Papa to Maddie (Jackson) Porter, Ella Shutwell, Ava Shutwell, Myah Shutwell, Allie Ruffcorn and Isabelle Ruffcorn, Samuel Carlson and Lucy Carlson. He was blessed with one great-grandson, Cameron Porter. He is also survived by his brother, Gene (Marcia) McMillen of Omaha, Nebraska, and his sister-in-law, Pat McMillen of Warsaw, Illinois, widow of his late brother, Weldon McMillen. He leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his family finds comfort knowing he is now at peace in the eternal presence of his Savior.

A memorial service will be held at 11am on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at the First Christian Church in Carthage with burial to follow at Sutter-Salem Bible Church in Sutter, IL. A visitation will be held prior to the service starting at 9am. A meal will be provided at 1 pm at First Christian Church in Carthage following services. Memorials may be made out to the Carthage Fire Station or the First Christian Church. Printy Funeral Home is providing arrangements.