Gerald Mills

Robert Gerald Mills, Sr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2025, at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences Hospital in Little Rock, Arkansas, at the age of 89. Born on November 25, 1935, in Middleton, Tennessee, to Luther David “Dave” Mills, Sr. and Lola Ophia Scott Mills, Gerald’s life was a testament to love, hard work, faith, and service to his family and community.

After graduating from Middleton High School in 1953, Gerald began his career with Houston Contracting Company. In 1959, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served honorably for two years, including time in Korea—a period he often reflected on throughout his life. While on furlough, he married his beautiful bride, Mary Gail Howell, on December 19, 1959. Upon returning home from service, Gerald met his four-month-old daughter, Melinda, for the first time—a moment he cherished deeply.

Gerald’s professional journey was diverse and defined by dedication. He worked with Houston Contracting Company, Universal CIT in Memphis, and Jervis Manufacturing Company (later Harman Automotive Inc.) in Bolivar. He also served as City Manager of Middleton, where he played a key role in bringing Dover Elevators to Middleton—a company where he went on to build a distinguished 34-year career (now TKE). After retiring in 2003, he continued consulting with Dover for several years. His extensive career reflected his work ethic and commitment to providing for his family.

Beyond his professional life, Gerald was deeply committed to his community. He volunteered as a firefighter, served on the city planning commission, was an active member of the Lions Club, and served as a Middleton city alderman. A devoted member of the Middleton Church of Christ, Gerald exemplified his faith through kindness, generosity, and a genuine love for others. He truly embodied the spirit of “loving thy neighbor.”

Gerald’s many passions brought him great joy. A lifelong sports enthusiast, he played baseball for U.S. Army teams during his service. He loved to attend Middleton High School Basketball games where he and Gail were beloved fixtures in the stands. He played in several adult softball leagues and proudly coached little league baseball for both his son and grandson. He also loved riding his motorcycle and side-by-side, tending to his horse farm on his tractor, and, most of all, spending time with his family.

Gerald is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Gail Mills; his sister, Dorothy Cagle of Middleton, TN; his two children, Melinda Russell (Danny) and Gerry Mills, both of Middleton; and his grandchildren, Scott Lawson (Tanya), Jordan Vaughan, and Sydney Duffy (Justin). His great-grandchildren, Brodie and Callie Lawson, brought him immense joy, as did his extended family and his cherished “grand-dogs.”

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Luther David Mills, Jr. and Harold Scott “Jack” Mills, Sr.

Gerald faced a 27-year battle with multiple myeloma with courage, optimism, and faith. His enduring smile, generosity, and unwavering strength continue to inspire all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and service that will live on through his family and community.

Memorial contributions in Gerald’s honor may be made to the UAMS Multiple Myeloma Center (http://giving.uams.edu/myelomagiving) or the Middleton Church of Christ.