Wilbert "Duck" Mills

Wilbert “Duck” Mills, 71, of Shelbyville, passed away on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, in Louisville. He was born on November 7, 1954, in Flat Lick to the late Alice and Challis Mills. Wilbert, lovingly known as “Duck” by his family, was one of eight siblings. He was a skilled auto body worker and spent many years working in Crestwood until the late 1990s, when his life was forever changed by a drunk driving accident that left him disabled. Despite this, he remained strong in spirit and deeply connected to the people and things he loved.

He shared 49 years of love and life with his devoted wife, Shirley Mills. Wilbert found joy in the simple things. He loved making his homemade blackberry jelly—his favorite—collecting coins, and spending time with his beloved dog, Drake. These were the things that brought him peace and will forever be remembered by those who loved him. In his youth, he was baptized in a creek in Flat Lick, Kentucky. Later in life, he renewed his faith and returned to the Lord. He was a devoted Baptist and attended True Words Baptist Church as his health allowed. His son-in-law, Joshua Tapp, served as his pastor.

Duck was preceded in death by his brother, James Mills; and his infant son, Keith Mills.

Wilbert is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Shirley Mills; his children, Judy Silvers (Joshua Silvers), Pamela Tapp (Joshua Tapp), and Allison Hornback (Andrew Hornback).  He also leaves behind a legacy of love through his grandchildren, Robert Atha (Courtney), Destini Macreno, Alexis Silvers (Zachary), Kayla Silvers, Ryan Atha, Jacob Mills, Drew Hornback, Callie Tapp, Ava Hornback, Madalyn Atha, Taylor Tapp, Emma Tapp, and Abigail Tapp; and his great-grandchildren, Lorenzo, Madison, Kavoni, and Rylee; and a host of family and friends..

Visitation will be from 4pm to 8pm on Friday, April 3, 2026 and also from 9:30am to 11:00am on Saturday, April 4th at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals and Receptions, East Louisville Chapel, 235 Juneau Drive, Louisville, Kentucky 40243. A celebration of Wilbert's life will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at 11am at the funeral home.

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