Our beloved John Clifton Mills, 69, of Crestwood, Kentucky tragically left us to be with his Lord on May 17, 2024. Born on December 1, 1954, in Casper, WY, John was raised in Grayville, IL, where he developed a strong foundation of family values and community spirit. He proceeded to pass on these traits to his family, as he raised them in Albion, IL, and later in Owensboro, KY.
Affectionately known as “The Baby Whisperer,” John had a special way with children. He frequented various ballfields, gymnasiums, and swim competitions across California, Texas, Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky supporting his grandchildren. John made a significant impact on the lives of many young people as he coached, encouraged, and cheered them on.
John is survived by his devoted wife, Donna Kay Mills, whose love and partnership were a cornerstone of his life. He was the beloved father of Jayla Dilbeck (Shawn), Lissa Mills, Jason Mills (Jaclyn), and Logan Mills (Shelli). His grandchildren, Tucker, Taylor, and Tessa Dilbeck, along with Ethan Woods, Lincoln, Landon, and Tatum Mills, were his pride and joy, and he cherished every moment spent with them.
He is also survived by his brother Jimmie Mills (Patty), and his sisters Marsha Haywood, Wanda Haywood (Terry), and Jackie Thomason (Jack). John was preceded in death by his parents, James and Lois Mills, his brother-in-law, Tom Haywood, along with his nephew, Robbie Smith, and niece, Jamie Mills.
John’s life was a testament to hard work, dedication, and unwavering love and support for his family. He consistently put others needs before his own, embodying servant leadership. John had an impact on all of those who worked with him and loved him. His heart for the underprivileged, sense of humor, affectionate nicknames, and heartfelt advice will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. A loving, generous, hard-working man, John enriched many lives with his warmth and wisdom.
A celebration of John’s life will be held at Cook Funeral Chapel in Grayville, IL, on Friday, May 24, 2024. Friends and family will gather to honor his memory and share the many stories of his impactful life. Visitation will be from 4:00-6:30 pm, followed by a memorial service from 6:30-7:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Bluegrass Center for Autism, where John had planned to utilize his maintenance skills during retirement. Donations can be made by visiting Bluegrass Center for Autism Ways to Give, online at bcaky.org, or by mail at 1250 Bardstown Rd #15, Louisville, KY 40204.
John will be remembered as a loving husband, father, Papa, brother, and friend. His legacy of love and determination will continue to inspire all who knew him.