Timara Lynn (nee Soehlke) McMillin – "Timi" to all who knew and loved her—passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 20, 2024 in the company of her beloved husband Brad. She was an absolute supernova who shone bright and those who knew her feel lucky to have basked in her light.

Timi was born at St. Mary's Hospital in East St. Louis, Ill., to August "Jim" and Patricia "Pat" Soehlke, 6 minutes after her twin Tamara "Tami" (nee Soehlke) Hudson. Three more siblings would follow: Jimmy, Traci (Olmstead) and Tari (Christ). The house was filled with love and chaos and "the twins" became unofficial mascots at Kahoks games. After graduating from O'Fallon Township High School in 1979, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Geographical Studies and Art Studio from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

She spent 15 years as a hair stylist where she not only used her gift to make her clients feel more beautiful, but also to connect with them and lend a friendly ear (ok, and maybe catch a little gossip in the meantime). Timi's beauty was only matched by her razor-sharp one-liners and frankly, it's amazing that late night hosts didn't snap her up to write for them. God bless anyone who mistook her vivaciousness and golden hair for a "ditzy blonde". She lit up a room by walking into it and she met her match in Brad McMillin. They married in 2000 and built a life filled with love, adventure and family.

Timi was deeply committed to her community. She served as president of the O'Fallon Jaycees, an organization providing leadership training for young adults. She was responsible for bringing the Main Street Program to O'Fallon. During her time as Director at the program, she was integral in bringing the beloved red caboose to Downtown.

Steps from the historic caboose was the site of Timi's personal sanctuary, Unity Yoga Studio. What had started as a weekly yoga and wine night for friends in her Mom's basement culminated in a space to bring people together through yoga. Timi radiated light from within and people gravitated to her. Her faith and her family were her guiding lights, especially when times were difficult. She had a passion for yoga and was an advanced level yoga teacher, completing 500 hours of courses to attain that level and was certified by Yoga Alliance.

In 2023, Timi was diagnosed with Glioblastoma Cancer, a diagnosis that she bravely faced with her family at her side. With caretakers Brad, Tami, Pat and Jim, and a team of professionals, Timi beat the odds time and again and won the hearts of her care staff. She maintained her sense of humor and quick wit to the very end. The family is profoundly grateful for all who supported her in prayer.

Although Timi will be deeply missed by all who know her, she finally has her place among the stars. Shine on Timi, shine on.
Timi is survived by her devoted husband Brad McMillin; her children Allyson (Glenn) Otey, Jordan (Laura) McMillin, Kalyn (Chase) King; beloved grandchildren Paxton, Emmy, Brody, Lucy, Nora and Elliott; adoring parents: Jim and Pat Soehlke; loving siblings: Tami Hudson (Dan), Jim (Laura) Soehlke, Traci (Dave) Olmstead and Tari Christ; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

She is preceded in death by brother-in-law Joseph Christ and father-in-law Donald McMillin.

Visitation will be 4-8 pm, Thursday, July 25, 2024, at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, 625 St. Nicholas Dr., O'Fallon, Ill., and from 9 -9:45 am, Friday, July 26, 2024 at the church.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 am, Friday, July 26, 2024, at the church, with Fr. Nick Junker presiding and Fr. Vincent Obi concelebrating.

Burial will be at St. Joseph's Cemetery (aka Keppler's Cemetery) in O'Fallon Township, north of O'Fallon.

Memories may be shared and a photo tribute viewed at www.wfh-ofallon.com. In lieu of flowers, and in appreciation for the care that Timi and her family received at The Shrine, the family asks that donations be made to either Benedictine Living Community (c hecks payable to BLC at The Shrine) at https://www.benedictineliving.org/belleville-il/foundation/ ; or to Adorers of the Blood of Christ (checks payable to Adorers of the Blood of Christ). Donations will also be accepted during the services.

Services entrusted to Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O'Fallon, Ill.

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