Cody Clayton Doc Milam, a 30-year-old cowboy from Purmela, Texas, tragically passed away on September 16, 2022. He was well-loved by his friends and community, known for his hard work at various ranches in Central Texas and his dedication to his family. Cody was a member of Boots and Saddle Cowboy Church in Gatesville and was remembered as a great father and "Uncle Coco."
The circumstances surrounding Cody's death were determined to be an accident. On the evening of September 16, 2022, Cody was shot by his hunting partner, Brian Lee Hitt, while they were playing around with guns after returning from dove hunting. Hitt claimed that he thought his shotgun was unloaded when he pulled the trigger, resulting in the fatal shot to Cody's upper chest and lower throat area. Hitt admitted to drinking alcohol before the incident.
Following the investigation, Hitt was charged with manslaughter. He later entered a guilty plea and was sentenced to ten years in prison for the accidental shooting. The case brought attention to the dangers of handling firearms while under the influence of alcohol and highlighted the importance of gun safety.
Cody's memorial services were held on September 24, 2022, at Boots and Saddle Cowboy Church in Gatesville, with many friends, family members, and community members attending to pay their respects. Cody is survived by his mother, Jess Day; father, Rick Milam; and his children, Hagen, Hondo, and Haize Milam. His passing left a significant void in the lives of those who knew him and loved him.
