Jesse James McMillan, age 81, of Rising Sun, MD, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. He was born on November 8, 1944, in West Grove, PA to the late Jesse Eugene McMillan and Elizabeth Ann (Vaughan) McMillan.

Jesse was a man whose life was rooted in hard work, passion, and family. He lived to farm and took great pride in the land he worked. A devoted International tractor fan, Jesse made his loyalty clear—you would never find John Deere on his property. Farming was not just his livelihood but his way of life, and he approached it with determination, discipline, and a strong business-minded spirit.

Beyond the fields, Jesse’s heart belonged to his Quarter horses and the thrill of barrel racing. He traveled extensively across the country and beyond, proudly showing his horses in places such as Virginia, Oklahoma, Canada, and many other destinations. His dedication and skill were rewarded with numerous awards, earned alongside his beloved horses, Farther Faster and Jet Bye Bye. These accomplishments were a source of great pride and represented years of commitment and love for the sport.

Jesse also had a love for fast cars and classic western movies, especially those starring John Wayne. These simple pleasures brought him joy and reflected his admiration for grit, strength, and perseverance.

Above all else, Jesse cherished his family. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the center of his world, and he found his greatest happiness in time spent with them. He also held a special place in his heart for his loyal dog, Dinker, who was never far from his side.

Jesse will be remembered as a hardworking, driven, and devoted family man whose legacy lives on through the land he farmed, the horses he loved, and the family who meant everything to him. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Jesse is survived by his children: Lynn King, Pamela Brooks, Joyce Martin (Bob), Samantha Garland, and Nathaniel Garland; 5 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; sister, Alice Burrell, and many cousins, nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Jesse is preceded in death by his wife, Merita (Smith) McMillan; son, Rufus Snyder; and former spouse, Patricia Ann (Benjamin) McMillan.

The family welcomes all to join them for a visitation on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, from 4:00-6:00PM at R.T. Foard Funeral Home, P.A., 111 South Queen Street Rising Sun, MD 21911. A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 11:00AM, and friends and family may begin visiting at 10:00AM at R.T. Foard Funeral Home, P.A. in Rising Sun, MD. A burial will follow at Friend’s Cemetery. To send online condolences, please visit www.rtfoard.com.