Mildred Nichols Gustafson

Mildred (Millie) Genevieve Nichols Gustafson, age 87, passed away March 4, 2025, in Memphis, Tennessee. She was born May 2, 1937 in St. Louis, Missouri to Sam and Thelma (nee Cleveland) Nichols, and the family shortly after moved to Memphis where Millie grew up, worked, raised a family and lived her blessed life. On August 20, 1955 she married her adoring husband Neil S. Gustafson, Sr. who preceded her in death after 47 years of marriage.

Millie was a beautiful singer and a creative, with a lifelong love of writing. She was ever the determined editor, always making the extra effort to find just the right words to make a composition perfect. She had a unique interest in, and giftedness with, children – understanding, teaching, and finding joy in their successes. Over the years she touched many kids with her kindred and guiding spirit, working as a kindergarten teacher, Sunday school teacher and church kids’ program director, daycare teacher, high school special education aide, and of course – mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.

In addition to her late husband Neil Sr., loved ones who preceded Millie in death were her parents and beloved brother Sam Nichols, a number of cousins, and a gaggle of cherished pets, all of whom she enthusiastically looked forward to seeing again. She is survived by her devoted partner and covenant husband Bill Burnell, her three sons Mark (Jeanne), Neil Jr., and Taylor (Rebecca), and her daughter Manya (Kendal); grandchildren, Woody Gustafson, Givan Bradley, Kyna Harrelson, Sunny Barrett, Max Gustafson, Noah Gustafson, Shiloh Gustafson, Kastle Kalamaha, and Kwynn Kalamaha; plus, eight great grandchildren. All of these she loved near and far.

Millie’s life was a true example of the Christian scripture from Luke 18: “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” We, her loving family, are confident of her much-desired and childlike entry into His Kingdom and are comforted that her next experience is there, where she sees clearly again, sings beautifully again, and will be dancing as she so enjoyed doing, no longer hindered by the flesh.

A private service and interment will be held at West Tennessee Veteran’s Cemetery, and a remembrance celebration for family, friends, and church brethren will be scheduled in the near future.

In lieu of flowers, you’re invited to donate to Millie’s remembrance celebration to be held for all family, friends, and brethren later this year.

Donation link and information - https://www.givesendgo.com/rememberingmillie