John Roger Mills

John Roger Mills, affectionately known as Roger, passed away peacefully on November 15, 2024, at the age of 80, in Memphis, Tennessee. Born on May 12, 1944, at St. John Hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Roger spent the first 78 years of his life in the Greater Tulsa Area, before relocating to Memphis, Tennessee, to live with his beloved daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren. Roger was a proud graduate of Tulsa Central High School and later attended OSU Tech, where he began a fulfilling career at Unit Rig Equipment Company, which was later acquired by Terex Corporation until his retirement. As an assemblyman for mining trucks, he dedicated many years to his work and was known for his strong work ethic and commitment to his unique craft. Beyond his professional achievements, Roger's true legacy lies in his unwavering generosity and compassion for others. He was known for his selfless acts of kindness-whether it was providing diapers for babies, groceries for those in need, or school supplies for children. Roger had a remarkable ability to see the needs of others and responded with a helping hand, often discreetly slipping a few dollars into the palms of those he encountered. As an adult, Roger and his family were church members at Campmeeting Tabernacle (now Century Cathedral). Roger was a devoted churchgoer who sang bass in the choir for many decades. He cherished the joyful noise of worship and the close bonds formed with friends and family during choir trips and performances. He proudly contributed to many record albums with the Campmeeting Tabernacle Choir and enjoyed playing on the church basketball team. His enthusiasm for supporting his daughter's and grandchildren's activities and his love for sports-especially football, baseball, and basketball-were hallmarks of his character. Roger even served as an umpire for girls' softball, showcasing his love for the game and dedication to youth sports. Roger is preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Ann Taylor Mills; his parents, Virginia Ruth Crume Mills and Dr. Jack H. Mills; his sister, Barbara Elizabeth Mills; and his in-laws, Virginia Gertrue Mize Taylor and MU Taylor. He is survived by his daughter, Cynthia (Cindy) Ann Mills Ward; son-in-law Ryan Adam Ward; grandchildren Justin Scott Long, Amanda Jane Ward Cannon and her husband Charles Parker Cannon, and Virginia Catherine Ward Watkins and her husband Gregory Vincent Watkins; as well as his sisters, Susan Mills Caldwell, Amanda Jane Mills Kaufmann her husband John Russell Kaufmann, and brother Charles Wesley Mills and his wife Tracy Taylor Mills. Roger is also survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews, countless loved ones, and his cherished dachshund, Marshall Tucker. Roger had a vibrant spirit, his favorite colors were red and blue, representing his favorite football teams, the Oklahoma Sooners and Tulsa Golden Hurricane. He had an affinity for old cars, trucks, and trains, and he loved listening to 1950s and 60s Doo Wop rock music. He was a true gentleman from a bygone era, leaving an indelible mark on everyone he met. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a local charity in Roger's memory, continuing his legacy of kindness and generosity. Roger will be deeply missed by many, and his spirit of love and compassion will continue to inspire and bless all who knew him.