A native of Kentucky, Mildred attended the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and, during World War II, contributed to the war effort by working as Quality Assurance in assembly line manufacturing. She inspected doors for B-29 bombers. She was injured on her left shin by heavy falling sheet metal, leaving a large scar. We always called it her war wound. She later pursued a career in the beauty industry, where she combined her creativity and work ethic.
In 1949, she married Sterling Jack Rhoton, "her Jackie," with whom she shared a devoted partnership until his passing. Together, they raised four children: Russell (Diana), Patricia, James E (Rebecca), and Kimberly. They were blessed with four grandchildren, Arthur Ferguson (Rauchelle) Eric Rhoton (Brenda), Alexander Rhoton, and Emile Wise (Daniel). Additionally blessed by great grandchildren Paige Ferguson, Lauren Ferguson, Benjamin Ferguson, James W Rhoton, Brooklyn Rhoton, and Grayson Wise who survive her.
Mildred was a woman who embraced a traditional life but was ahead of her time in many ways. She valued lifelong learning and maintained a passion for gardening, natural health, and fitness. She disliked cooking, yet grew food, canned and froze it, and made delicious meals daily. She baked a cake each weekend for anticipated visitors until she was 90 years old. Her love for cultivating beauty with flowers and landscape remained a constant throughout her long life.
She lived with grace, drawing strength from her family and friends, many of whom she now joins in rest. Mildred’s faith, wisdom, and strength of spirit left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered. Though her absence will be felt deeply, her legacy will live on in the hearts of her loved ones.
As we remember Mildred, we celebrate a life well lived and a love that was shared and cherished by all who knew her.
Visitation will be Tuesday, September 24, 2024 from 12-1PM with a 1PM Funeral Service at Kaul Funeral Home, 27830 Gratiot Ave. Roseville, MI 48066. Burial to follow services in Cadillac Memorial Gardens-East.
