William Alton Milliken, Sr.

On a cold winters day in 1928 in 1928, Lillian and Horton Milliken warmed themselves by the open fireplace that was roaring. They were in a small wood frame house that looked out across a dirt main street in a small town, Shallotte, North Carolina. They readied themselves for the tough task at hand. Later that day Alton Milliken was born.

The family grew again with the birth of Mary on Christmas Day 1929. Horton and Lillian family was set and survived the Great Depression. Alton and Mary graduated Shallotte High in 1947.

Alton’s life goal was to become an electrician. He journeyed to Chicago, IL attended and graduated from Coyne Electrical School. That decision would forever alter his life course.

With his education complete, he served in the U.S. Army. It was during this period that he met the love of his life, Edna (EB) Mintz. Alton and EB were married on the courthouse steps in Conway, South Carolina.

They together started W.A. Milliken Electrical Service. They had two sons, Al and Jamie. In 1971, the family started The Shallotte Electric Stores.

Throughout SES 50 years history, Alton and EB touched countless lives. Not only were they building their brand, they were leading the way in the development of Brunswick County. Beginning with these early years of the business over 400 families have been supported by the company. Countless electricians, plumbers, and heat and air trade workers have been assisted in business by Alton Milliken.

Alton’s fingerprint will forever be upon Brunswick County. He treated people with respect and his word was his bond.

Alton and EB achieved great things in their lives but they never lost sight of their humble beginnings. Alton was the same at 93 as he was at 23.

A true life well lived.

Surviving are his wife, Edna (EB) Mintz Milliken; sons, William A. Milliken, Jr. (Glenda) and James H. Milliken (Missy); grandchildren, Justin Milliken, Megan Milliken, Amy Holden, William (Will) Milliken, III, and Casey Milliken; great-grandchildren, Shelby Milliken and Asbury Milliken.

Funeral services will be conducted on Thursday, December 23, 2021 at 1:00 pm in Village Point UMC, officiated by The Reverend Richard Stone.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm at the church.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.brunswickfuneralservice.com

Brunswick Funeral Service, Shallotte