Her Life‘s Journey

Doris was born on October 11, 1946, in San Bernardino, California, to Wallace and Stella Smith. Growing up, Doris was a creative, endearing child who turned heads with her striking platinum blonde hair and sparkling blue eyes. In her teenage years, Doris was adventurous and delightfully mischievous. She could be found jumping her horse over makeshift barriers higher than her parents permitted, reveling at Newport Beach parties, and ‘cruising’ in her father’s new car along E Street past the ‘Big M’ (the first location of the McDonald's in the nation). She possessed a natural athletic streak, famously out-shooting the competition to win trophies in archery during her youth. After graduating from Pacific High School, Doris brought that same sharp focus into the workforce, where her innate gift for connecting with people allowed her to truly shine.

Doris dedicated 38 unforgettable years of service to the Associated General Contractors of California (AGC). For nearly four decades, she didn’t just work—she built a thriving community, deeply treasuring the lifelong friendships she forged along the way. Her AGC family will forever remember her as a master coordinator who didn't just plan events, but choreographing them with a signature flair. Armed with a quick wit and a wonderful, uproarious sense of humor, she was, quite literally, the life of every party.

Above all, Doris poured her heart into her family. She was the devoted, loving wife of Mack McMillan for 53 beautiful years, and a fiercely caring, proud mother to their son, Shawn. To her entire family, Doris didn't just resemble the legendary “Auntie Mame”— she embodied her. She brought color, fun, and a touch of glamour to every room she entered, and loved ones of all ages counted down the days until they could spend time in her company again.

She was exceptionally kind, deeply understanding, and left an indelible mark on everyone she met. She will be profoundly missed, and her family and friends will forever feel incredibly lucky to have had Doris’s bright light in their lives.

Doris left us too soon on February 22, 2025. She is survived by her son, Shawn McMillan; her sister, Ronda Smith; her niece, Laura Sautel, along with Laura's daughter and son, Bethany and Alex; and her nephew, Jason Sautel, along with his wife Kristie and their children, Isaac and Noah.

Honoring Doris’s wishes, her son and sister scattered her ashes and set her free to the winds off the scenic coastline of Mendocino. Should you take a trip to Mendocino, please raise a glass of fine wine or your favorite beverage and share a toast with Doris.

Mendocino Coast Photo by Ronda Smith