Milton R. Worthington

Milton Ronnell Worthington, affectionately known as “Milt” or “Truck,” entered into eternal rest on March 15, 2024, at his residence in Carrollton, Virginia. He was born February 8, 1953 in Murfreesboro, North Carolina, to James Henry Worthington and Mildred E. Boone (Jones). Milton attended Calvin Scott Brown High School from 1968-1971 where he played football and was a member of the track and field team. Due to mandatory public school integration, he graduated from Murfreesboro High School in 1971. 

 Milton attended Fayetteville State University in the fall of 1971 on a football scholarship and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education in 1975. While at Fayetteville State University, Milton lettered all four years (1971-1975). “Truck,” as he was nicknamed, was a multi-talented offensive lineman. At Fayetteville State University, he played alongside his friend, social fellowship brother, and distinguished teammate Sylvester Ritter, who later became the world renowned wrestler known as the “Junk Yard Dog” for the WWF/WWE. At the conclusion of his college football career, he was offered a tryout with the NFL team, San Francisco 49ers, but declined the offer to pursue his professional career.  At the pinnacle of his football career, Milton was inducted into the Fayetteville State University Athletic Hall of Fame in 2015. 

 While at Fayetteville State University, Milton was inducted as a member of Groove Phi Groove Social Fellowship, Incorporated. in spring 1973. Groove Phi Groove was founded on the campus of Morgan State University in 1962.  Groove Phi Groove Social Fellowship focused on ethical standards, academic awareness, and the unity among men in undergraduate and graduate programs. Milton was an active member in his undergraduate chapter and an active member in his post-collegiate years. 

 Milton embarked on his career journey by becoming employed by the North Carolina Department of Corrections in McCain, North Carolina, at the Sand Hills Youth Center as a Correctional Programs Assistant II and Counselor and Recreational Supervisor from 1975-1977.  While working there, he attended the North Carolina Criminal Justice Academy in Salemburg, North Carolina, where he received a Correctional Officers Certification. In 1977, Milton was employed by Loudoun County Public Schools in Leesburg, Virginia, to pilot a teacher program.  While doing this, he was also hired to be the Assistant Junior Varsity Football Coach at Loudoun Valley High School from 1978-1980.  He became Head Coach from 1980-1981. After coaching, Milton became the first African American to hold the position of Attendance Coordinator from 1982-1995. Milton earned a M.Ed. Degree in Administration and Supervision from George Mason University in 1989.  From 1995-2006, he became the Attendance/Homebound Education Coordinator where he supervised an immediate staff of six officers along with thirty-five instructors.  He retired from Loudoun County Schools in 2006.

 Milton was united in marriage to Celestine Stephenson on July 9, 1977, and from that union, their daughter Janika Michelle  was born. They made Leesburg, Virginia, their home until retirement. While in Leesburg, they united and worshiped with Providence Baptist Church. While at Providence, he was ordained and served as a Deacon.

 Upon retirement to Carrollton, Milton and Celestine united with Main Street Baptist Church under the pastoral leadership of Reverend Dr. James M. Harrison.  Milton and Celestine joined Main Street Baptist Church because of the loving and friendly spirit of the people.  Milton was a committed Deacon, Missions Worker, President of the Main Street Learning Center, President of Covenant Place Board of Directors, Past President of Chosen Generation Gospel Choir, and a member of the Men of Music. He loved serving others–availing his God-given talents and abilities to help others.

 Milton’s hobbies included watching Sunday football, traveling (he was the curator of awesome road trips), spending time with family and friends, cooking and eating delicious food, and he was a master of all household projects. We fondly remember him for his funny jokes and his ability to make people laugh.

 He was preceded in death by his parents, James Henry Worthington and Mildred Boone; his brother J.D. Worthington. He leaves to cherish his wonderful memories: daughter, Janika Worthington; honorary daughter, Angela Riddick; granddaughter, Angela Carrington; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

 Notably, Milton had a host of close neighbors and friends who helped him throughout his various stages of healthcare and needs. We bless God for them.  We will miss our father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, but we will always cherish the wonderful memories that we formed with Milton, our dearly beloved. 

On Friday, March 22, 2024, viewing will be held from 3-6pm at Shivers Funeral Chapel. On Saturday, March 23, 2024 11am a Celebration of Life will be held at Main Street Baptist Church, Smithfield, VA. Please keep the Worthington family in your thoughts and prayers.