Obituary: Millicent Ginburg

Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt and friend, Millicent “Millie” Ginburg, 94, of Atlanta passed away on Nov. 15, 2024. Her family, for whom she has been a grounding, consistent and inspirational force, surrounded her as she left this earth. Although she was diminutive in size, all who knew her admired her strength, intellect, wisdom, independence and indomitable spirit.

Born on Oct. 11, 1930, in Mullins, S.C., she later moved with her family to Fairmont, N.C., where she spent her formative years. A bright and driven young woman, she graduated from the North Carolina College for Women in 1951. Shortly thereafter, she moved to Atlanta, a decision that began a lifelong love affair with her new city.

In 1952, Millie married Bennett Ginburg, the love of her life and partner of 31 years until his untimely passing in 1983. Millie dedicated herself to being a homemaker, raising their two children, Nancy and Paul. After Bennett’s passing, Millie demonstrated extraordinary resilience and a fiercely independent spirit. She approached her independence on her own terms, never doing anything without setting the rules. When she was ready to leave the house, she confidently stepped into the workforce as a receptionist, a position she held with pride until her retirement. Even her decision to leave her beloved Toco Hills neighborhood and move closer to family was entirely on her schedule, guided by her wisdom and unwavering self-determination.

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A lifelong lover of art, theater, and classical music, Millie filled her life with culture and creativity. Sunday mornings often found her in her kitchen, classical melodies floating through the air as she baked her famous desserts, her hands skillfully preparing the sweets that became cherished staples of family gatherings. Her “incredible edibles,” cookies, cakes, and pies were as much a testament to her artistry as her passion for baking. Millie also had a deeply competitive spirit as a devoted Atlanta Falcons fan. She became a season ticket holder in 1966 when the team first moved to Atlanta and never missed a season for nearly six decades. Her dedication was honored pre-game after 40 years of unwavering support, and she was featured in the game program to celebrate 50 consecutive years as a season ticket holder. For Millie, cheering for her Falcons was more than fandom; it was a lifelong passion and a cherished tradition.

She also embarked on many grand adventures, traveling the globe alongside dear friends and her beloved sister, Rochelle, who predeceased her. Together, they explored the world, braving the rapids of the Amazon, marveling at Mayan ruins, and sharing unforgettable laughter along the way. An avid bridge player, she rarely missed a game, delighting in the camaraderie and competition the game offered.

Above all, Millie was a matriarch whose family was her greatest joy. She is survived by her two children, Nancy Howard of Dallas and Paul Ginburg of Atlanta and his wife, Sally; her five grandchildren, Adam (Ana), Michael (Christal), Jonathan (Jessica), Bennett (Carly), and Daniel (Caroline); and 10 great-grandchildren, Addison, Emma, Ezra, Lenora, Juliet, Bennett, Dov, Aubrey, Bella, and Rickie. Her family will miss her spirit, her wisdom, and the cookies that were as big a part of their childhood as her hugs.

Graveside services were held on Sunday, Nov. 17, at Crest Lawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Berman Commons, Weinstein Hospice, or The Weber School. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care (770-451-4999). May her memory be a blessing.