Thomas Wayne Mills

Thomas Wayne Mills of Waynesville, NC died October 4, 2015 in Asheville, NC at the age of 85 after a period of declining health. Tom was the youngest of seven children born to Joseph and Ethel Mills from Sylva, NC and was the last surviving sibling. After serving in the Korean War, Tom worked his entire career at Dayco in Waynesville, NC where he was well respected by fellow employees. During this time Tom traveled with Dayco Corp to plants in Michigan, Mexico and Hungary; teaching other workers how to make printing blankets. In 1950 Tom married Willa Mae Henry, with whom he shared 65 years. Tom’s hobbies included taking meticulous care of his home and lawn and fly fishing. He was an avid sports fan, remaining loyal to the Atlanta Braves and the Duke Blue Devils throughout his life. Tom was a loving and supportive grandfather and a faithful member of the Grandview Baptist Church where he enjoyed participating in the choir. During this last decade, Tom’s love for Willa Mae was demonstrated in the commitment he showed as her caretaker as she advanced with Alzheimer’s disease. Together, Tom and Willa Mae moved to Heather Glen Assisted Living in 2014 where he continued to offer daily support and care to his wife. His presence and sense of humor will be greatly missed by both the staff and residents at Heather Glen. Tom is survived by his wife Willa Mae, his son Terry Mills and wife Gail of Asheville, NC, his grandson Brad Mills of Atlanta, GA and grand-daughter Carly Mills of Eugene, OR. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Danny Henry and his wife Carolyn of Clyde and several nieces and nephews. He was pre-deceased by a grandson, Joseph Matthew Mills in 1984. There will be a visitation from 5-7 PM on Friday, October 9, at Garrett's Funeral Home. Tom’s memorial service and burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org.