News Summary
Millicent ‘Millie’ Docking, a beloved matriarch from Novi, Michigan, passed away at the age of 90. Known for her faith and community involvement, she dedicated her life to family and caring for others. A registered nurse by profession, she prioritized her children and grandchildren, while remaining active in her church and local charities. Docking’s legacy of compassion and resilience will be cherished by her family and community.
Novi, Michigan – Millicent “Millie” Docking, a cherished matriarch and community figure, passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on May 21, 2025, at Fox Run in Novi. Docking was known for her unwavering faith, resilience, and dedication to family and community, leaving behind a rich legacy of love and service.
Born on April 15, 1935, to William and Annie (Paul) Kelynack, Docking was raised in an environment steeped in compassion and a strong commitment to helping others. She embraced her Cornish heritage throughout her life, notably in her love for the traditional British tea ceremony, a practice she cherished and passed down through generations.
Docking pursued her passion for caring for others by studying nursing at the Henry Ford School of Nursing and Hygiene, and later at Henry Ford College. Upon graduating, she launched her career as a Registered Nurse, showcasing her innate kindness and nurturing spirit. However, after starting a family, she selflessly stepped away from her professional career to devote herself completely to her husband and their three children.
In 1957, she married William “Bob” Docking, with whom she celebrated nearly 70 years of partnership. Their relationship was characterized by mutual support, deep affection, and shared values. Together, they raised three children: Pam Docking Johnson, Jeff (Elizabeth) Docking, and Tim (Julia) Docking. Docking took immense joy in being a grandmother and is survived by 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, all of whom deeply valued her influence in their lives.
Docking’s grandchildren include Courtney Johnson-Norland, Ben Johnson, Tim Johnson, Bonnie Johnson, Jacob Docking, Carter Docking, Taylor Docking, Julianna Docking, Ethan Docking, Luca Docking, and Meryl Docking. Her role as a grandmother enriched her life and those of her grandchildren, fostering family bonds that will endure through the generations.
A devoted member of her church, Docking was actively involved with Stephen Ministries, where she provided comfort and companionship to those in need. Her commitment to service was a testament to her character and values, exemplifying the strength and grace she demonstrated throughout her life.
She enjoyed summers at her family cottage in Bay View, Michigan, where educational programs and the peaceful environment brought her joy and fulfillment. Despite being diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis on her 40th birthday, Docking faced the physical challenges of her illness with remarkable resilience, touching the lives of many around her.
Docking is preceded in death by her husband Bob and her brother Paul Kelynack. She will be deeply missed by her family, church community, and a wide network of friends who admired her spirit and dedication to life.
A celebration of Millicent Docking’s life will be held at Bay View later in the summer, with the specific date yet to be determined. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be directed to Cass Community Social Services, honoring her legacy of giving back and supporting those in need within the community.
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- Legacy: Marilyn Smith Obituary
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Dignity Memorial: David Wheat Obituary
- Google Search: Millicent Docking Obituary
- Detroit Free Press: Obituary
- Google Scholar: Millicent Docking
- Dignity Memorial: Doug Patton Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Legacy: Linda McMillan Obituary
- Google News: Millicent Docking
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
