James Patrick Mills Sr.

Mills, James Patrick Sr. CATSKILL James Patrick Mills Sr., age 86, of Catskill, died Friday, June 1, 2018, at home, surrounded by his family. James was born October 2, 1931, in Manhattan, the son of the late Martin and Helen Mills. James served in the United States Marine Corps. during the Korean War. He became a New York State Trooper in November, 1954. James was employed by the New York State Police for 37 years prior to his retirement as an investigator. Afterwards, he continued to work as sergeant of arms for the New York State Legislature for an additional 13 years. He was predeceased by a brother, Harry Mills; and a sister, Helen Mills Bruff. James married Gloria "Jerry" Gaffney on April 11, 1959. He was a communicant of St. Patrick's Church in Catskill. James served as a coach for St. Patrick's Girls Softball Team for several years. He was an avid golfer and long-time member of the Catskill Golf Club. He also enjoyed skiing and bowling, and was a member of the Over The Hill Gang Softball Team and Catskill Old-Timers Softball League. Jim is survived by his wife, Mrs. Gloria Mills of Catskill; a son, James P. Mills Jr. and wife Shelby, of Vermont; a daughter, Kerry Mills Miller and husband Christopher of Catskill; a brother, Martin Mills and wife Kathleen; five grandchildren, Kathleen Miller, Shannon Miller, James Miller, Ryan Mills, and Collin Mills; a great-granddaughter, Khloe Bliss Roberts; and several nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends may call from 3-7 p.m. on Tuesday at Traver & McCurry Funeral Home, 234 Jefferson Heights, Catskill. Funeral services and Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Wednesday in St. Patrick's Church, Athens. Father James Borstelmann will be officiating. Interment with full military honors will follow in St. Patrick's Cemetery in Catskill.