Michel J. Millet

Michel Jacques Millet, 78, passed away unexpectedly on July 20, 2025, in Kerrville, Texas. Born in Lyon, France on June 7, 1947,

Michel lived a life full of adventure, creativity, and deep connection to the people and places he loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Berthe and Marcel Millet, and is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Ellen Bolton; many cherished cousins in France; his mother-in-law, Deeann Bolton Calvert; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Patrick Bolton, John and Heather Bolton, Mike and Judy Bolton; and many nieces and nephews in the United States.

Michel grew up in France and proudly served in the French Navy aboard the French Ambassador’s ship, traveling the world. In his early twenties, he immigrated to the United States and became a U.S. citizen—although he never lost his charming French accent.

While working in hotel and restaurant management in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Michel met the love of his life, Ellen. They began their married life together in Coral Gables, Florida, and soon after made their home in the Texas Hill Country. Over the years, they also lived in other parts of Texas, spent four memorable years in Panama, and built lasting friendships everywhere they went.

Michel’s professional life was as diverse as his passions. He spent nearly two decades in hotel and restaurant management and later pursued a second career as an import/export antique dealer, traveling to places like India and Indonesia. An accomplished artist, chef, photographer, and gardener, Michel expressed his creativity in many ways—whether through a successful art show featuring his imaginative collages in Boquete, Panama, or by transforming old farm equipment into whimsical garden sculptures.

He had a deep love of nature and water, from childhood swims in the Mediterranean to later days enjoying the Pacific Ocean, the Russian River, and the Guadalupe River. He was also an enthusiastic fan of tennis and the Tour de France, keeping his connection to his homeland alive through sport and tradition.

Michel's warmth, humor, and adventurous spirit touched many lives. He will be remembered for his generous heart, artistic soul, and the joy he brought to those around him.

A celebration of Michel’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to honor his memory through a kind gesture, a shared story, or time spent in nature.

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