About
Kenneth Mills Obituary
Kenneth Ray Mills, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to all, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026, in Cleveland County, NC, at the age of 83. Born on November 5, 1942, in Haywood County, NC, Kenneth lived a life full of warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for his family and community.
A proud Army Veteran, Kenneth dedicated his life to serving others, not just through his military service but in every interaction he had. Known for his friendly nature and ability to strike up a conversation with anyone, Kenneth never met a stranger. His genuine interest in people and his community was evident in his favorite pastime—people watching and walking the town, where he would greet everyone with a smile and a kind word.
Kenneth's greatest joy came from spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He cherished every moment with them, creating memories that will be treasured for generations. His legacy of love and kindness lives on in his surviving family: his sons, William Mills of Kings Mountain, Gary Mills of Lattimore, NC, and Kenneth Mills and his wife Grace of Kings Mountain, NC; his daughter, Melissa Mills of Star, NC; along with 10 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
Kenneth is preceded in death by his brother, Wilburn Mills; sisters, Hazel Crawford and Geneva Crawford; and twin great-grandchildren, Chandler and Hudson Hayes. Though they are no longer with us, their spirits remain intertwined with Kenneth's enduring love.
His family will announce details of the services to honor his memory as soon as possible.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
303 Phifer Rd., Kings Mountain, NC 28086
People and places connected with Kenneth
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for Kenneth Mills
Make a Donation
in Kenneth Mills's name
How to support Kenneth's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Kenneth Mills's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored