The Optimist Club of Perdido Bay recently named former Alabama State Rep. Steve McMillan the Optimist of the Year 2022.

McMillan, who passed away in April, was a long-time active member of the group, joining in 2000 sponsored by Lillian resident Michael Russell. According to past President Daniel Randall, Steve was always available to help, whether it was washing dishes, helping Santa Claus or telling the weekly joke.

He was a child advocate, sponsoring a variety of bills during his more than 40 years in the state house. He was a well-respected Optimist friend who embraced the Optimist motto, "Bringing Out the Best in Kids."