Washington, D.C. - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Brother Marco W. McMillian, Immediate Past International Executive Director of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated.
On Tuesday, February 26th, members of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity were informed that our beloved Bro. McMillian was reported missing. His car was identified at the scene of a major accident at the Tallahatchie-Coahoma county line in the state of Mississippi. As the news media has previously reported, Bro. McMillian has been running for the position of Mayor in his hometown of Clarksdale, Mississippi.
Today, we have received the official word from the State of Mississippi that the body of our dear Brother has been recovered and identified by authorities in Coahoma County and by his family. It is an extremely sad day for those who knew and loved Bro. McMillian.
Memorial arrangements are still pending. We request that, due to the very sensitive nature of this situation and the ongoing law enforcement investigation, NPHC leaders and members worldwide limit public expressions (Facebook, Twitter, etc.). Many of us are in shock and grief over this situation—you can best help his family and community by limiting the sharing of any information about the circumstances.
“Bro. McMillian made an incredible difference in his community and in Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity through his involvement during his brief time on earth,” shares the Hon. Jimmy Hammock, International President of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. “He was our youngest and only the fifth Brother to serve in the capacity of Executive Director of the Fraternity (2007 – 2011).”
Bro. Marco McMillian was responsible for securing the first federal contract to raise the awareness of the adverse impact of HIV/AIDS on communities of color for the Fraternity. Additionally, he garnered new partnerships with organizations including City Year, Nationwide Insurance, the United States Marine Corps, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as the National Council of Negro Women. In 2004, Ebony Magazine recognized Bro. McMillian as one the nation’s “30 up-and- coming African-American leaders less than 30 years old”.
His service to the Fraternity will always be remembered. We pray for peace and abound in these circumstances, knowing that God will comfort all who have been affected by his sudden departure from our midst.
