Henry Richard

"Boot" Milner, Iii

With a radiant smile and an infectious personality, Henry Richard Milner III, lovingly known as "Boot," brightened the lives of everyone he met. His favorite phrase was "I Love Everybody," and he lived by it—always willing to lend a hand or offer encouragement to anyone in need. Boot was especially passionate about inspiring young people to work hard and pursue their dreams, instilling in them the importance of dedication and perseverance.

Family meant the world to Boot, and he cherished every moment spent with his loved ones. His devotion to them was unwavering, and nothing brought him more joy than being surrounded by family. Known for his sharp style and lively spirit, Boot was the life of any gathering, always bringing fun and laughter wherever he went.

A dedicated worker, Boot spent nearly four decades at General Motors, commuting over an hour each way every day. After retiring, his desire to stay active led him to work at several other jobs, including Griffin RESA, Christian Ministries Hospice, and Burden's Funeral Home. Boot's work ethic and commitment to others were evident in everything he did.

He was deeply involved in his community. He was a member of the  Griffin-Spalding Civic Improvement League and as a former Ombudsman for the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women Club. A man of faith, Boot accepted Christ at a young age and received spiritual guidance from Old Mount Calvary and New Mount Calvary Baptist Churches.

Boot courageously battled heart disease for the past year. On Friday, February 21, 2025, he peacefully passed away at Piedmont Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. In his final moments, he shared laughter and comforted his loved ones, expressing his readiness to go home to heaven, where there would be no more pain or suffering. With his characteristic strength, Boot told his beloved wife, Barbara, to be strong and asked his children to give him a huge hug which later solidified a heartfelt goodbye. When asked if he was ready to enter heaven, he joyfully replied, "YES !"

Boot was preceded in death by his mother, Eunice Hall Milner; step-mother, Jessie Milner; his mother-in-law, Annie Maude Williams; and his father-in-law, Henry "Nick" Williams.

He leaves behind his devoted wife of 57 years, Barbara Renee Williams Milner; his children, Reginald (April.) Phillips, Tanya Milner (Derek) McCall, and Henry Richard "Richie" (Shelley)Milner IV; his 96-year-old father, Henry Richard Milner II; and his siblings, Jesse (Annie) Milner, Barbara Milner (Michael) Wyatt, Cornelius (Melinda) Milner, Darlene Milner (Jerome Carter), Walter (Linda) Milner, Johnny(Tammy) Milner, Lajay (Carlos)Chambliss, Willie Patillo, and Preva (Cedric) Neal.

Boot's legacy lives on through his 10 grandchildren: Quadarius Phillips, Omarion Phillips, Brianna Butler, Aubrielle Phillips, Reajouna Phillips, Ieshia McCall, Byron McCall, Xavier McCall, Anna Grace Milner, and Elise Faith Milner, as well as his great-granddaughter, Mi'Lani McCall. He also leaves behind his beloved sisters-in-law, Annie Pearl Cook, Betty Blackmon, Henri Lue Morris, Lena Starks, and Lottie Pyron Melton, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Boot will forever be remembered for his unwavering love, infectious laughter, and the countless ways he touched the lives of those around him. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who have had the privilege of knowing him.