Linda Hesser McMillian

Linda Hesser McMillian passed away Saturday, December 29 surrounded by her loving family. Born September 16, 1945, the oldest daughter of Carleton and Elizabeth "Liz" Hesser, Linda grew up in Gillett where she raised her three boys, taught dance class, hunted, barrel-raced horses and was involved in the kids' school activities. Linda is survived by her devoted husband of 20 years (together more than 36 years), Jerry McMillian; three adoring sons, John Sollars, Bart (Kim) Sollars and Slade (Sara) Sollars; grandchildren Paige (Tyler), Karly, Briar, McCoy, Ryan, John, Parker and Jarret and five great-grandchildren; brother Charles (Kim) Hesser, sister Carla (Rusty) Hestir, brother Don Hesser (Mike); sister-in-law Linda Shireman Hesser, brother-in-law Bennie (Gayla) McMillian and numerous nieces and nephews. Linda also leaves behind her cherished babies, Sammie, Maggie and Katie. Linda was adventurous and loved to travel, whether it was on a Harley with Jerry, snow skiing in Colorado and Jackson Hole, girl trips to Cabo, RV trips to a Nascar race or annual trips to New Orleans with her boys and their families, Linda was always "ready, set, go!" Her boys describe her as the most selfless person they know. Jerry loved her more than life itself. Linda was kind-hearted, supportive, forgiving and above all, generous. She was a loyal friend to many and she was fiercely protective and proud of her boys. She loved to feed the foxes and deer in her yard, but only after she prepared chicken dinner for her babies…every day. Linda had a quiet, steadiness about her that made us all feel safe and secure. If she was having a bad day or didn't feel well, we never knew. She was unwavering in her appreciation of every single day. She loved to visit, no matter when, where or with whom. She was genuinely interested in getting to know you. Her spirit was like a shining star, lighting up every room she walked in. Over the years, Linda welcomed countless friends and family members into her and Jerry's home. Anyone that needed a helping hand or a comfy place to land was greeted with a big smile and hug, including many of the four-legged variety. The family would like to express their gratitude to all of Linda's caregivers at UAMS and Arkansas Hospice. But more than anything, the love and devotion of her daughter-in-law, Kim was seen and felt by all of us. Her willingness and insistence to stay with Linda at the hospital day and night the last couple of months allowed Jerry, the boys and the rest of the family to focus on just being with Linda. We're all grateful for her care of our amazing wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. A celebration of Linda's life will be Saturday, January 5 at the Methodist Church in Gillett, AR at 2:00 p.m. Boots and jeans are encouraged. The family requests that memorials be made to: Humane Society of Pulaski County, 14600 Colonel Glenn Rd, Little Rock, AR 72210. www.essexfuneralhome.com.