Martha B. Mills

Martha was born on September 13, 1922 in Springfield, the daughter of Roy and Callie Brunner Yates. She married Louis W. Mills, Jr; he preceded her in death on April 7, 1980.

Martha was employed for 32 years at Sangamo Electric and 12 and a ½ years with the Department of Transportation, retiring in 1992. She was a lifelong member of St. Aloysius Catholic Church and sang in the choir for 37 years. St. Aloysius was a source of comfort and understanding for Martha. She felt largely blessed to have an inclusive, outgoing congregation that made her feel welcome. Her many memberships within the community included Past Region of CD of A, St. Louise de Marillac Guild, Sangamo Retiree, past member of Legion of Mary, Council of Catholic Women, and K of C Council #4175 Ladies Auxiliary. She enjoyed many wonderful times traveling to Hawaii, going to casinos with the girls, singing, baking apple pies, and cooking in general. Martha loved flower and vegetable gardening. She was also a published author of poetry.

Martha was also preceded in death by her daughter, Madonna Charmaine Mills; her parents; two sisters, Garnetta and Yvonne Cook; and three brothers, Edwin R., Walter, and Orville Yates.

She is survived by her sons, Calvin W. (wife, Pat), Forrest M. (wife, Gloria), and Brad R. (wife, Ronda) Mills, all of Springfield; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation and Concelebrated Funeral Mass: Family will receive friends from 10:00 until 11:15 a.m. on Friday, January 8, 2021 at St. Aloysius Catholic Church, 2125 N. 21st St., Springfield. A Concelebrated Funeral Mass will follow at 11:30 a.m. with Rev. Clinton Honkomp, OP, Principal Celebrant. Illinois COVID-19 guidance will be followed, requiring face coverings and limiting attendance.

Private family burial will be held at Camp Butler National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Aloysius Catholic Church, 2125 N. 21st St., Springfield, IL 62702.

The family of Martha Belle Mills is being served by Butler Funeral Home—Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield.