He was born October 8, 1937, in Chattanooga to the late Charlie & Alma (Dykes) Mills.
Mr. Mills was a longtime member of Brainerd Baptist Church. He worked at Brock and Blevins for many years and retired from Metal Building Services. Mr. Mills was a veteran of the United States Navy.
Growing up, he and his dad worked at their family farm on Cherokee Valley Road. He was also a butcher at Ryall Springs Grocery. He had a love for Southern Gospel quartet music. Mike was an avid camper and had a fun-loving personality. He never met a stranger.
Among his hobbies were water-skiing, cruising, and watching his children and grandchildren play sports. Early in life, he was especially proud to coach his children. He had an immense love for his family, specifically the love of his life, Bonnie and his best fur friend, Hachi.
His son, Dale Mills and sister, Marcia Richie preceded him in death.
Survivors include his loving wife of 67 years, Bonnie Helton Mills; children, Danny & Cindy Mills, Doug & Stephanie Mills, and Debra Mills Holsomback all of Ringgold, GA; daughter-in-law, Tonya Mills of Cleveland, TN; brother, David & Barbara Mills of Ringgold, GA; eight grandchildren, Tyler & Madison, Morgan, Ellie & Jose, Seth, Holyn & Corey, Maddie & Cranston, Luke, Haylee & Jake; nine great-grandchildren, Brayden, Olivia, Addy, Maverick, Bonnie Claire, River, Saydee, Sophee, Saegan, and Charlie is on his way; and many nephews and nieces, cousins and friends.
The family will receive friends Sunday, October 11, 2026, from 2-4 PM at the funeral home.
A Celebration of Life service will begin at 4:00 PM in the East Brainerd Chapel with Rev. Royce Powell officiating.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the nurses and staff of Tapestry Hospice of Ringgold for their love and care for Mike during this difficult time.
Memorial contributions may be made to Gideons International at www.gideons.org.
Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 8214 East Brainerd Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37421.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com
