Joseph Milam, Jr

Joseph B (Jay/JB) Milam, Jr went to be with the Lord on January 18, 2025. He passed away peacefully while at home after a day spent surrounded by all his kids and grandchildren.  Jay was born in Winston Salem, NC on December 31,1953 to Joseph B Milam, Sr and Dorothy Simpkins Milam.

Jay grew up in Charlotte, NC where he continued to live most of his life.  He graduated from Olympic High School, Class of 1973.  He was known for his kind spirit and great smile.  That smile followed him through to the end of his days.

Jay got into woodworking at a young age and mastered the skill of furniture restoration and crafting handmade furniture. He was a true craftsman in restoration of antiques and building skills of all types whether it was furniture or remodeling. These were skills he passed down to his 3 older sons.

Jay’s love for the Lord came first in his life. This was evident in the way he loved his family.  His wife Hannah was the love of his life, and his children were his pride and joy.  He also touched countless lives in the children’s ministry he did.  He spent many years working every Sunday in children’s church and summers doing children’s church camps.

He was preceded in death by his parents Joe and Dot Milam, and his brother Wade Milam.  Jay is survived by his wife of 47 years, Hannah Milam, 4 sons, Joe Milam, Matt Milam (Jessica), Jacob Milam (Erin), Chris Bayne and 1 daughter Charity Kossisyan (John) and 10 grandchildren (Gabbie Henderson, Ben Milam, Isaac Milam, Leah Milam, Austin Milam, Ivy Milam, Camilla Milam, Leo Kossisyan, Eliza Kossisyan and Farrah Kossisyan.  He is also survived by his sister JoAnne Miller (Danny), brother Ike Milam (Cindy) and sister-in-law Cindy Milam (Wade).  His sister and brother in laws equally loved him, as did the 22 nieces and nephews. He wasn’t just a great husband, dad and grandpa, he was a wonderful uncle too. 

A Memorial service to celebrate Jay’s life will be held on February 15, at 2:00pm, at Oakland Baptist Church, 600 E Sunset Drive, Monroe, NC 28112.  In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations can be made to The Parkinson’s Foundation or Hospice, as both of these organizations were very beneficial in helping him during his times of need. 

Jay touched many people throughout his lifetime.  We pray his sweet spirit and contagious smile will live within you as you cherish his memories.  All your thoughts and prayers have been felt and are appreciated more than we can express.