Gary Douglas Mills

Gary Douglas Mills of Laguna Hills was 73 years old when he passed away peacefully Sunday morning, October 8th, at Providence Mission Hospital. Extremely intelligent, fiercely independent, and ever the fighter, Gary fought hard after enduring a five month battle with Glioblastoma, brain cancer. “Nothing to Fear” was playing at his church at the time of his passing, which was a song that provided peace the last few months. The song features a quote from Isaiah 43, “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name.” Gary was born on May 7, 1950, in San Diego, where he was raised until moving to Orange County to attend college. He graduated from Southern California College in 1973, and earned a Masters in Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary in 1986. After graduation, he was ordained by the Presbytery of Los Ranchos and served as pastor and youth pastor at a number of churches in Orange County. He truly enjoyed his opportunities to provide mentorship and counsel to the church youth and others in need. He remained active with the church throughout his life. Gary also completed a successful 30 year career as an executive at United Parcel Services, where as a pillar in that community he made lifelong friends and used his intellect and insight to mentor, improve safety and help others.

Steadfast and always there for others, Gary led a remarkable life gifting to others. Gary was a fun, loving, protective and nurturing father to two amazing daughters, Rachel Mills (Huntington Beach) and Tamara Anglea (San Diego). He also adored playing, making jokes, and chasing his granddaughters, Aubriana and Cassidy Anglea. He could always connect with children and youth in a very special way. Gary maintained lifelong friends with many people from his childhood, college, church and UPS work associates. Throughout Gary’s life he kept a close partnership with best friend, Darlene Dice Brucker, and deeply cared for her granddaughter, Desiree, who he loved like family.

In retirement Gary became a Teaching Elder at his home church, served as President of his HOA, and had time to focus on photography, one of his great life passions and truly gifted talent. After returning to school to hone his skills, he began a successful photography business, won several photography awards and even became an official photographer for Laguna Niguel Chamber of Commerce. He gladly took the time to capture those special moments for family, friends and special events. He created his own website, GaryMillsPhotography.com, in order to display and share his beautiful work. Gary was kind, caring and passionate. He had a witty sense of humor and a quick smile. He was always ready for a deep conversation or debate. If anyone ever needed him for anything, he would be there in a heartbeat. He is one of those people who truly impacted others and whose love, wisdom, and heart lives on in others. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 11th at 11 am at Laguna Beach Presbyterian Church.