Lena Victoria (Hedrich) Milstead passed away peacefully on October 19, 2025, in McKinney, Texas, at the age of 88. She was born on December 30, 1936, in Blue Ridge, Texas, to Clarence C. and Flossie Hedrich.
A proud graduate of Blue Ridge High School, Class of 1955, Lena was both Valedictorian and Homecoming Queen her senior year. She went on to graduate with honors from North Texas State University as well as the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking at Southern Methodist University, where she earned a Graduate Degree in Banking.
Lena began her professional career at Collin County National Bank, where she worked for many years before transitioning to real estate in 1980. She earned her real estate broker’s license in 1968 and, in 1985, she and her husband, Early B. Milstead, founded Milstead Real Estate. From 2001 to 2025, she continued her career with Keller Williams Realty, where she remained an active and respected Realtor. Throughout her long career, Lena served her clients and community with integrity, professionalism, and care.
A devoted member of High Pointe Church in McKinney for more than 60 years, Lena’s life was firmly grounded in her Christian faith.
Her commitment to service extended well beyond her professional life. Lena served on numerous community boards, including the Women’s Council of Realtors for the Collin County Association of Realtors, the Board of Directors for North Texas Christian Academy, the Collin County Association of Realtors, the McKinney Chamber of Commerce, the Eldorado Ladies Association (as Past President), and Habitat for Humanity, among others.
Lena loved traveling with her family, tending to her garden, and caring for her many flowers and plants. However, her greatest joy came from spending time with her beloved granddaughter.
Family and Friends
Lena is survived by her husband of 61 years, Early B. Milstead of McKinney, Texas; her daughter, Holly Milstead and husband, Scott Reynolds of McKinney; and her granddaughter, Morgan Milstead-Prince and husband, Tyler Prince of McKinney. She is also survived by extended family and countless dear friends. Lena’s warmth, grace, and kindness will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
Celebration of Life
Visitation for family and friends will be held on Thursday, October 30, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at High Pointe Church in McKinney, Texas. A Celebration of Life service will take place on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at 4:00 p.m., also at High Pointe Church.
All who wish to honor Lena’s life and legacy are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to The Samaritan Inn in McKinney, Texas, in loving memory of Lena Milstead.