Ricky Eugene Mills

Ricky Eugene Mills was born on June 16th, 1954, at Ferrell Hospital in Eldorado, IL to the late Richard Mills and Myretta Mills. Rick departed from this world on February 15th surrounded by loved ones to tend the pastures of heaven alongside Jesus. Rick attended grade school and junior high in Norris City. He later moved to Cave-In-Rock, IL where he graduated from High school and chose to live out his life in the small village. He took pride in being a part of a tight-knit community and strived to help those in need. He married Patty Beavers in 1975 and to this union was blessed with four children Thomas Chad Mills, Robert Lee Mills, Kimberly Dawn Mills, Daniel Matthew Mills. In 2003 he married Carlita Mangila and to this union was blessed with a daughter Gretchen Diane Mills. Rick worked for McDowell logging sawmill, Milligan Brothers Construction, Illinois Department of corrections, Star Trucking. After he retired, he worked part time for the Illinois Department of Transportation and as a grain truck driver. Rick was also a lifelong farmer. He was passionate about farming and found peace being on his farm. He enjoyed raising various breeds of cattle and horses. He truly was a one-of-a-kind horseman. He had a great interest in Peruvian pesos. He also spoke proudly of his experience with the Mustang Discovery riders. Rick also loved to garden and grow unique crops. Another love of his was traveling and he spoke graciously about his time exploring so many different places. He enjoyed reading and learning new things about his many interests. He also loved to talk to people and learn about them and their life stories, including diverse cultures. 

 Rick was preceded in death by a brother Ronald Mills known to many as Ronnie and his father Richard Mills. He leaves to mourn his passing his beloved wife Carlita Mills five children Chad (Renee) Mills of Cave-In-Rock, IL Robby (Lexie Jane) Mills of Harco, IL Kimberly (Wesley Hutchins) Mills of Golconda, IL Daniel Mills of Cave-In-Rock, IL and Gretchen Diane Mills of Buena Park, CA. Eight grandchildren Alexandria Wheeler, Shawn Folwell, Rhett Hutchins, John Matthews, Izabella Mills, Landen Matthews, Alex Hunziker, and Jackson Hunziker. His mother Myretta Mills and his brother Joe (Cindy) Mills. 

 Rick will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. 

 Services are scheduled for 1 PM Tuesday February 25th 2025 at Potters Church in Cave-In-Rock, IL with interment in Cave Hill Cemetery. The family will receive visitors from 10 AM until service time at the church. Officiating the service will be Richie Mills.