She was born November 9, 1947, in Brilliant, Alabama, to Willie and Lucille Downey. Ballroom dancing was her passion for many years, and the dance floor was where she kept her friendships.
She is survived by her son, Tim Mills, and his wife, Julia Richey-Mills, and by Ed Mills, her former husband and, long after the marriage ended, her steady friend. Her family is grateful to the staff at Magnolia Springs Southpointe, who cared for her through eighteen months of a disease that takes everything.
A private family service will be held in Italy.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.
