David Wayne Mills

In Loving Memory of David Wayne Mills

August 22, 1952 – August 30, 2025

David Wayne Mills, 73, of Monahans, Texas, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2025.

David was born in Graham, Texas, on August 22, 1952, to the late Clifford “Bud” Mills and Dora “Owana” Mills. He grew up in Monahans, Texas and attended Monahans High School where he was a proud member of the Monahans Loboes Football Team and the graduating class of 1970. He later attended Odessa College, where he earned an associate degree in Police Administration in 1972.

David dedicated his life to public service. He began his tenure as a patrolman in 1973 for the City of Monahans. He rose through the ranks to eventually become Police Chief in 1979, a role in which he served with integrity and leadership. Later, in 1993, he was appointed City Manager, where he continued to guide and support the community. He received many honors during his remarkable career, but was particularly proud of being named the recipient of the Monahans Outstanding Citizen award in 1998. He maintained his role as City Manager until his retirement on January 31, 2019. David’s more than 45 years of service left a lasting mark on Monahans, and his dedication to the city will be remembered for years to come.

While his career was distinguished, David’s proudest role was that of husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He shared 44 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Barbara Fae Fry, who he is survived by. Also surviving him is his daughter, Lisa Michelle LaPlante and her husband Michael John LaPlante; his son, Phillip James Breeding and his wife Patricia Ann Breeding; his brothers, Johnny Mills and Dale Mills; his sister, Karen Mills Crawford; and their families. He is also survived by his pride and joy - his grandchildren - Andi, Mason, Emilly, Cameron, and Brody and his great-grandson, Zylan.

David especially loved spending time with his five grandchildren. Whether it was taking them to the “mountain,” cheering them on at their respective sporting events, teaching them to hunt or fish, or sitting down for a game of chess that he usually won, his presence brought love, wisdom, and laughter to every moment.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at the Ward County Coliseum with graveside service to follow at the Monahans Memorial Cemetery. Family and friends are welcome to attend and honor David’s life of service and love.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Harkey Funeral Home with Billy Riley and Jeppie Wilson officiating.