John A. Mills Jr, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2016. Born January 20, 1953, in Midland, Texas, he is survived by his wife of 31 years, Tammy, and his two loving sons, Morgan and Dillon. John is also survived by his mother Frances Mills, sister Melinda Williamson, brother Steve Mills (Dodie) all of Midland; niece Claire Pearson (David), nephew George, nieces Talia Cox (Todd), and Kalin Racine (John) and nephew Micah. He was preceded in death by his father, John A. Mills, Sr.
John graduated from Midland High and the University of Texas Business School, later serving on the UT McCombs School of Business advisory committee. He was a faithful Longhorn fan, never missing the Texas/OU game in 43 years, except the year his younger son was born. At UT he was a member of Delta Upsilon, serving as social chairman (surprise!) and President, where lifelong friendships were made that will endure.
After graduation, John moved to Houston as a CPA for Arthur Anderson, followed by many years in the oil industry (Charter Oil, NRG Trading, Tesoro, Phibro) before joining his father in the crude oil transportation business of Lantern Petroleum Corp. John was an avid golfer, a member of Pine Forest CC, Champions CC and the Houston Racquet Club. In 2012 John fulfilled a lifelong dream of playing the “old course” at St. Andrews in Scotland.
John was a very loving, kind, laid-back man with a big infectious laugh. He followed his father’s example of being a man of honor, integrity and most importantly a man of faith. He was a big supporter of all his sons’ activities, from coaching soccer to little league baseball and chairing golf tournaments for the Memorial High booster club and the Spring Branch Education Foundation.
A longtime member of Chapelwood United Methodist Church, he was honored to be a Lifetime Member of the Board of Stewards. John served on many and various committees, and made many lifelong friends through the Men’s Bible study and the Seekers Sunday school class.
John was blessed to have many good friends who loved him dearly. With much gratitude, we would like to thank all of you for your prayers, love, support, phone calls, visits and many, many acts of kindness. A special thank you to Yasmin Martinez and Karen Solis for their exceptional love and care of John during the last few years, as well as, to the entire staff at Autumn Grove/Heights. Also overwhelming gratitude to Dr. Rebecca Clearman and Susan Altemus, R.N.
For over 10 years John diligently fought early-onset Alzheimer’s; his family endeavors to continue the fight. In lieu of customary remembrances, donations can be made to Cure Alzheimer’s Fund http:curealz.org, or to the Chapelwood Foundation, 11140 Greenbay, Houston, Texas 77024.