Mary Jo Mills

1961 - 2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Mary Jo Mills, who left us peacefully on May 7th, 2025 at the age of 64. She was a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, friend and will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Mary Jo Pollard was born March 26, 1961 to Gordon and Martha (Santine) Pollard in Saint Paul. She grew up in Saint Anthony Park, Mahtomedi, and Falcon Heights, where she developed a love for track, volleyball, skiing, the state fair, and being with friends. She attended St. Paul Murray, Mahtomedi, and graduated from Alexander Ramsey where she lettered in track and volleyball. She continued her education at 916 Community College where she received her dental assistant certification.

Over the years, she became known for her kind heart, infectious smile, and unwavering support for those around her. Mary Jo touched many lives with her strength, grace, and compassion. She enjoyed all her coworkers in her different roles through her almost 45 years at IC System. She also worked part time at the Target Deli in Lino Lakes. Outside of work she volunteered for the Lions Club in Wyoming MN and when the children were younger as a Sunday School/Confirmation Leader at Faith Lutheran Church in Forest Lake. She was very passionate and involved in her children and grandchildren's sports and hobbies. She lived her life with purpose and gave tirelessly to others. She was particularly known for her love for her dogs, disco bingo, and going out with her friends and family. Her legacy of love and kindness will live on through children, grandchildren, siblings, friends, and pets who cherished her deeply.

Mary Jo is survived by her husband Mark Mills of Wyoming; children Ryan (Laura) Mills of Stacy, Adam Mills of Hinckley, Sean (Afton) Mills of Forest Lake, Meghan Mills of Wyoming; grandchildren Sawyer Mills, Marshall Mills; siblings Bo Pollard of Circle Pines, Jeff (Rita) Pollard of Oakdale, Tim Pollard; many other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents Gordon and Martha Pollard.

Reverend John Klawiter will officiate services for Mary Jo: 2:30 PM Wednesday (May 14) at Faith Lutheran Church in Forest Lake. A time of visitation for friends and family is planned for one-hour prior to the service at the church.

Memorials may be directed to: Regions Cancer Center, 640 Jackson St., St. Paul, MN 55101

Funeral arrangements for Mary Jo Mills are entrusted to the: Funeral and Cremation Service of Pine City ~ Swanson Chapel

www.FuneralAndCremationService.com