Donald E. Mills, Sr. (Donnie) transitioned from this earthly home with family at his side on December 20th, 2024. He was born on June 4th, 1953, to Mary Jean Byrd and Joseph Mills. He was a resident of Copley and Akron Ohio for many years. Donnie was known for his sly infectious smile, laugh, and a mean mug that many of his children and grandchildren have to this day. He loved motorcycles, cars, music, family, the Twilight Zone, all things Bruce Lee,  and every single western ever made. His ultimate love was walking the trails of Sand Run. He was our protector, provider, teacher, counselor, confidant, best friend, and the greatest superhero that we will ever know.

Dad, we love you and we will miss you. When you said that it was time for you to go home and be with Ladonna and Jayden, it hurt, but we understood. May you finally rest peacefully with the family, and freely walk every single trail that Heaven provides.

Donnie was proceeded in death by parents, Mary Jean Byrd and Joseph Mills; brothers, Ronald and Robert Mills; sister, Carolyn Mills; children, LaDonna Mills, Donald Mills III, and Edward Mills; grandchildren, Mar'Siano Mills, Jayden Shippe-Lane, and Jazlyn Mills; niece, Denita Mills; nephews, Erik Mahone, Osage Mills, and Antwan Mills

He will be deeply missed by his children;

sons, Donald (Susan) Jr., Donte, Donovan, and Gavin; daughters, Deirdra, Shannon, Donna, Cindy, Kristin, Dominique, Miranda, and Savannah; siblings, Francetta Lewis, Allen Hubbard, and Stephanie Mills

Grandchildren; Doniqua (Lamont), Delan, Jordan, Cheyenne, Kaylee, Arreon, Cameron, Anthony, Aniyla, Joshua, Kayla, Ramone, Niylan, Miranda ll, Mar'Shaun, D'Yauni, Demico, Demi, Mateo, Jayden, and Zaire; Great grandbabies, M'Kayla, Aaliyah, and many nieces and nephews that he loved dearly.

Per Donnie's longtime instructions, there will be no funeral. Calling hours are reserved for close family and friends with a private burial to follow.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Jayden Shippe Lane scholarship fund at Kent State University.

Cards may be sent to:

22 Rhodes Ave

Akron, Ohio 44302