Mildred Stalnecker

1931 - 2022

Mildred (Millie) Stalnecker December 13, 1931 - February 12, 2022 It is with heavy hearts we announce the loss of our loving mother, devoted wife, proud grandmother/great-grandmother and spiritual compass. After unconditional love to family and friends for 90 years, her heart felt its final beat. She knew it was time and it was a peaceful departure in the comfort of her own home in the care of her lifelong companion/husband by her side. Millie was born in Virginia and grew up being raised by her grandparents in Kinston, North Carolina. She was married to her husband Howard for 67 adventure filled years. Being married to a career Air Force Pilot, Millie dealt with the lifestyle and demands of a military wife with dedication and grace. Setting up and running households in Oklahoma, Florida, New York, Ohio, Alaska, Texas, Florida (again) England and finally California, was a testament to her grit and ability to adapt. Raising their two boys by herself the year that Howard served in Vietnam put her inner strength on display. Millie never missed a baseball, football, basketball or soccer game that her boys or grandkids participated in. She loved the competition and was a fierce competitor. After raising her boys and sending them off to college, Millie found she still had untapped energy and ambition. She worked at Riverside Family Services for many years and also obtained her real estate license. Millie and Howie developed a reputation at wedding receptions they attended. They could be found on the dance floor performing their signature dance, the Jitterbug, to an admiring audience. Howard was her perfect chosen partner. After all, they first met at a Cadet USO dance at Stalings Air Base in Kinston, N.C.. Millie and Howard traveled extensively through Europe as well as crossing the states several times in their R.V.. The yearly beach trip to Camp Pendleton in the R.V. with her grandchildren was a favorite time of hers. Traveling was truly in her blood. Millie also had a love affair with fashion. That penchant could easily be validated by her bulging closets and a shoe collection that would make Imelda Marcos envious. Her Christian faith was strong. Millie was very active in her worship at Church on the Hill (formally Riverside First Baptist) for over 45 years. The fellowship she shared with her church family was an important part of her life. She truly loved her Lord. Millie was predeceased by her parents, 2 sisters and 4 brothers. In addition to her husband Howard, Millie is survived by her two sons, Michael (Leslie) and Thomas; grandchildren Sabyn, Torrey and Tyler; great-grandchildren Ryker, and twins Ezlyn and Soryn. Your absence is painful. Be patient. We will all be together again.