Melva Zane Mills

Melva Zane Mills, 90, of Cross Lanes, affectionately known as Poppa Mel, left this life to be with his Lord and Savior on July 3, 2026. He passed away peacefully at home with his beloved wife of 28 years, Sue, by his side.

Poppa was born February 10, 1936 in Kegley, WV, the second son of the late Claren and Garnet Mills. He grew up in McDowell County, graduating from Big Creek High School in 1953. He married his high school sweetheart, Willa Gay Myers Mills in 1955 and in the 40 years they shared together they raised three sons. After the death of his first beloved wife, Mel eventually found love again and married Sue Ann Nicely Mills in 1998.

Mel was a successful man at every thing he set his mind to. The two greatest accomplishments he wished to be mentioned is his family and his acceptance of Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. Throughout his life, Poppa held an unwavering faith in God and shared the Good News with those around him.

He leaves behind a beautiful legacy of faith, grace, and unconditional love. In addition to his wife, Sue, Poppa Mel is survived by his sons, Michael (Mary Ann), Byron (Rhea), Aaron (Jeannie); his step-children Debbie Runnion, Scott Young, Melissa Kupfner (Paul), Melody Smarr; 20 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren; and his sister, Bonnie Isom. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Lee, sister in-law Helen, and his brother in-law Eric Isom.

A celebration of life service will be held at noon on Saturday, July 11, 2026 at Tyler Mountain Memory Gardens in Cross Lanes, WV, with the Rev. Aaron Mills and the Rev. Byron Mills officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a memorial donation be made to his wonderful caregiver, Natalie Haynes. She was instrumental in keeping Poppa in the comfort of his home during his last weeks and providing exceptional love and care to him and his family. You can send these donations c/o Jeannie Mills, 904 Midway Dr., Dunbar WV 25064, or through CashApp $jeanniemills72

Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.tylermountainfuneralhome.com