Charles E. Mills

Charles E. Mills, 86, of 15 Zephyr Drive, Asheville, died Thursday, December 13, 2001, in a local hospital following a brief illness. Mr. Mills was a native of Buncombe County and was the son of the late Oakley C. and Maude Eaton Mills. He was also preceded in death by his infant twin sons. He served in the 7th Armored Division of the United States Army from 1941 -1945, and was decorated by both the United States and France for meritorious service. He retired in 1980 from EA Industries in Arden and spent the remainder of his life volunteering in his community and church. He was a life-long member of Trinity United Methodist Church where he sang in the choir for over 60 years, taught Sunday School, and was active until his recent illness. He was a former member of the Asheville Optimist Club and at the time of his death was a member of the Rhododendron Civitan Club. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Nelle Young Mills of the home; a daughter, MarLisa L. Mills of Asheville; a granddaughter, Kristen Mumpower Lewis and husband Josh of Mars Hill; two great-grandchildren, Addison and Hailey Lewis of Mars Hill; a brother, Edwin R. Mills and his wife Ella Moore of Raleigh; two nephews and three nieces. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 pm Sunday, December 16, at Trinity United Methodist Church with the Revs. Ted Craddock and Ralph L. Reed officiating. The family will receive friends at the church following the service. In lieu of flowers,memorials may be made to the Ministerial Discretionary Fund of Trinity United Methodist Church, 587 Haywood Road, Asheville, NC 28806. Groce Funeral Home on Patton Avenue is in charge of the arrangements.