Donald Wayne Mills, 85, died Thursday, August 15, 2024, at Paris Regional Medical Center, surrounded by loved ones. He was born on May 27, 1939, in Detroit, to Margaret Perkins Mills and Henry Leroyce Mills. He worked as a truck driver for many years and retired as a member of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters.
Donald was a man of deep faith, strong values, and a steadfast commitment to his family. His life was marked by love, resilience, and dedication to those who knew him. He shared his first life with Tina Mills until she passed away. On June 10, 2010, Donald married Shirley Hawley, with whom he shared the latter years of his life. He loved working on puzzle books and spending time with his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley Mills; children, Tonya Phifer and her husband, Will; Jana Moore and her husband, Clay; grandchildren, Dylan Smith; Landri Brown and her husband, Lance; Jett Long; and Holland Moore; great-grandchildren Atti Smith, Mackenzie Brown, and Gabriel Brown; brother, Jim Mills, and his wife Carolyn; nephew, Jimmy E. Mills, Jr., and his wife; great-nephew, Steven Henry Mills; and numerous friends who were like family to him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret Perkins Mills and Henry Leroyce Mills; first wife, Tina Chumley Mills; grandparents, John and Dora Cox Perkins; and Bob and Cora Palmer Mills.
Donald Wayne Mills will be remembered for his kindness and his unwavering support for those he loved. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Bright-Holland Funeral Home has scheduled graveside services for 9:00 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 18th at Bluff Cemetery with Rev. Karl Bush officiating.
Pallbearers will be Clay Moore, Will Phifer, Dylan Smith, Jett Long, Mark Miller, Paul Miller, Danny Miller, and Chandler Tucker. Honorary pallbearers are Ronnie Yarbrough, Dickie Ewing, Bill Barton, Tom Green, and Timothy Loftin.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any donations be made to the Bluff Cemetery in care of Teena McDowra 5155 Old Clarksville Rd. Reno, Texas 75462.
To leave a message or tribute for the family please visit www.brighthollandfuneralhome.com
