David Ray Millikan

David Ray Millikan, beloved son, brother, uncle, veteran, and friend, passed away on March 31, 2025, at the age of 65. Born on July 28, 1959, to O. Ray and Linda Millikan, David grew up with a deep love for family, nature, and tradition. He learned to shoot from his grandfather during childhood, developing an early connection to the outdoors. He cherished time spent with his grandparents, playing baseball, and protecting his younger sister, Shari. David attended Sam Houston State University before embarking on a long and diverse career spanning the gas and oil industry, nuclear power plants, construction, and welding. Throughout his life, he was deeply proud of his service in the United States Navy and remained actively involved in Chickasaw Nation events and heritage. A lifelong learner, David held a passion for knowledge—constantly pursuing certifications and staying engaged in topics like politics, health, and faith. He often spoke of how his dream job would be to work in space, reflecting his deep curiosity and adventurous spirit. His wisdom was rooted in experience, sharpened by humor, and always guided by his faith in God. David was also a legendary cook in his own right, known especially for his famous meatloaf and hamburgers. He found joy in the simple, meaningful moments of life: hunting, fishing, and watching the Aurora Borealis at night with the love of his life, his late wife Vickie—whose marriage he always considered the shining highlight of his life. David is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Vickie Millikan; his father, O. Ray Millikan; his maternal grandparents, Linwood and Chickasaw elder Grace Lloyd; his paternal grandparents, Orville and Louise Millikan; and his maternal great-grandparents, WWI Chickasaw elder John W. Connelly and Lillian Evans Connelly. He is survived by his mother, Linda Millikan; his devoted sister, Shari Millikan; niece, Misty Day Millikan and her children, Nolan Alex Rice, Ryan Eli Rice, Holland Landry Millikan, and Aspen Reign Gregor; niece, Sara Renee' Kersten and her children, Gunner Lee Travis Claxton and Kenedee Sunshine Williamson; his aunt and uncle, Dicky and Rita Lloyd Payne; cousins, Paula Wyman and Kyle Payne; and countless friends and family whose lives he touched with his kindness, knowledge, and unwavering spirit. No services are scheduled. Arrangements are under the direction and care of DeArman-Clark Funeral Home.

Tributes

David Ray Millikan

July 28, 1959 - March 31, 2025