Ronald James Milkas

Ronald Milkas touched the hearts of countless people through his work as a teacher, coach, deacon with the Diocese of Savannah, foster and adoptive parent, devoted husband, and exceptional father. Born in Buffalo, New York, Ronald graduated from St. Joseph Collegiate Institute before attending Iowa State University, where he met his bride, Margaret Milkas. They married in 1987, beginning a partnership that would span decades. In 1988, he began working for Conrail/CSX as a chemist. His first daughter was born in 1989, followed by a second in 1991. In 1998, the family moved to Waycross, Georgia, with the railroad. In 2001, Ronald and Margaret opened their hearts and home as foster parents. In 2003, he changed careers and became a teacher, a calling that would define much of his life's work. While teaching, he earned his master's degree in education and a master's in theology, becoming an ordained deacon in 2013. He taught earth science, technology, and special education, and also taught adults at the local prison. The family continued to grow through adoption in 2004 and again in 2009, expanding into their own softball team. In 2017, Ronald began a courageous battle with multiple myeloma, facing routine medical procedures and scares with characteristic bravery. In 2018, he lost his mind and bought his first boat, so it balanced out. Over the next eight years, he became a grandfather multiple times and continued to be a sounding board for anyone who needed it, remaining brave, loving, and present in all of his children's lives until the end. Ronald is preceded in death by his mother, Ethel Milkas (2024); brother, Robert Milkas (2004); and father, Calvin Milkas (1993). He is survived by his brother, Richard Milkas; niece, Shelbi (Dimitri) Drakopoulos; wife, Margaret Milkas; daughters Cameo (Jeremy) Haynes and grandsons Jonathan and Jackson, Nichelle Milkas, Lizzie (Sean) Milkas, Katrina (Heath) Walker and grandson Waylon and granddaughter Lyza, Sabrina (Matt) Edwards, and Chelsea (Ryan) Milkas and grandsons Cristopher and Bryson; and son Denver (Katie) Milkas and granddaughters Emmie and Bailee and grandson Grayson. Ronald's deep religious faith was the foundation of his life, guiding everything he did. He had a gift for bringing people together, whether around the grill for a family gathering, on the water for a fishing trip, or in the kitchen where he loved preparing and sharing meals. He was a jack of all trades who could fix anything and was always willing to teach others. The Bills, hunting, and the outdoors brought him joy, but his greatest passion was making others feel included and valued. He had an extraordinary ability to support people during their toughest times, offering wisdom, encouragement, and presence even when it wasn't expected. His legacy is one of service, generosity, and unconditional love—a life lived in a way that made everyone around him feel like family. Services will be held on Saturday, January 3rd 2026, at St. Paul's Catholic Church, 4178 US Highway 441 S, Douglas, Georgia 31535. The Rosary Service will begin at 1:30 p.m., followed by Funeral Mass at 2:00 p.m. Interment will take place at the church, with a reception to follow in St. Paul Social Hall. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to https://www.stpaulmissions.org/giving. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the many health professionals who worked to ease the last eight years, and to the friends and family who offered support, love, and laughter. Above all, gratitude to his wife, Margaret Milkas, who survives him in life and continues to be a family pillar.

Ronald James Milkas

April 1, 1960 - December 28, 2025