William L. “Bill” Mills

October 3, 1939 - January 7, 2018

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William Lowell was born on October 3, 1939 to William A. and Dollie Pickett Mills in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. He graduated from College High School, where his friends called him Chief, because his dad was the chief of police in Cape. He then attended S.E. Missouri University. Bill met the love of his life, Jozette Willis, while he was in the U.S. Air Force and stationed at Reese Air Force Base. The young couple was married December 22, 1963 in Lubbock, Texas, where they raised 4 children. Bill enjoyed going out to eat with Jozette, buying her gifts, and giving her cards for every special occasion.

After leaving the Air Force, Bill had a long career as a commercial truck driver and received the “million-miler” award from Frito Lay. Even after retirement, he kept in touch with his fellow drivers by meeting for coffee every Saturday.

Over the years, Bill had several interests. He enjoyed welding and being an active participant in a gun club. He won several state shooting competitions.

He was a music lover and enjoyed a wide range of music including big band, rock n roll, Motown, country and gospel. He was a saxophone player in high school and really enjoyed good guitar picking.

Survivors include his wife, Lennie Jozette Mills; their children, Debra Keesee and husband, Kirby; Darla Boyce and husband Mitch; Robin Tanaka and husband, Christopher; and William R. “Billy” Mills and friend Alyssia Warren; grandchildren, Kandace Welch and husband, Jack Trey; Kolton Keesee; Hunter Dillon; Kadee and Brody Boyce; Ashley and Jaron Hardage; Destiny, MacKenzie and Alexis Mills; and 10 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Arthur and Dollie Mae Mills; and brother, Donald R. Mills.

William L. “Bill” Mills passed from this life into the arms of Jesus Sunday, January 7, 2018.

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I’m sorry for your loss and pray that the good memories of your Dad will sustain you all in the coming months and years. God Bless and keep you all and your Mom in His hands.

My thoughts and prayers are with the family as you go through this difficult time of losing Bill.

Jo,you have our deepest sympathy on Bills passing. Bill was one of my oldest friends of more than 70 years. I never knew of Bill being anything but a true and honest and kind man. Regards to you and the family. Buck&Melba

I am so sorry for your loss. He was a great friend and a lot of fun during our school years. I wish you and your family comfort in the coming days and always.

Please know that you all are in my prayers for comfort and peace as you mourn the loss of Bill. I am a high school friend of his and have such fond memories of those times with Bill. He was loved and respected by his classmates. The last time I saw him was at our 50th class reunion where we all reconnected again. It was a good time with lots of good stories.May God Bless you all.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

So very sorry for your loss. Bill was a good and faithful friend for 55 years and will be missed by all who knew him.

So sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. We were the best of friends in high school and had many happy times together. I’m so glad I got to talk to him on the phone recently, at which time he was surprisingly upbeat. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers, Jo, at this time of sadness.

My deepest condolences to Chiefie's family. I have very fond memories of him from high school--just one of the genuine "good guys".

Uncle Bill was the sweetest uncle. Love him dearly. Will miss him so much

I am so sorry for your loss. I had a great love and friendship with Chiefie and will miss our regular conversations. Wishing you all the best as we all go forward.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.