Mr. Ronnie Lee Mills, 72, of Barbourville, passed away Thursday evening, August 28, 2025 at the Barbourville ARH Hospital. He was born February 3, 1953 in Knox County, the son of the late Cecil and Bernice Bargo Mills.
Ronnie found great joy in tending to his garden, growing a variety of vegetables, which he generously shared with family and friends. It was his way of staying active and allowed him to be where he enjoyed, outside. In his younger years, Ronnie enjoyed being on the lake fishing or scouring the mountains deer hunting.
Ronnie was a devoted husband to Joyce Mills, with whom he shared over 50 years of marriage. He was a loving father to Jamie and Eric Mills and a proud grandfather to five grandchildren, all of whom will miss his gentle spirit.
Ronnie spent over 40 years working as a sawmill operator, where he sawed cap wedges for the mining industry. He was an active member of the Solid Rock House of Prayer, where he found comfort in his church community and was known for his kindness and quiet strength. Ronnie believed wholeheartedly in the power of God, which guided him through life’s challenges and joys.
Ronnie was known for his humbleness and ability to make everyone around him feel welcome, and always offered advice, whether wanted or not. His legacy will live through his children, grandchildren, and the many lives that he touched. He will be remembered for his loving easy-going nature, unyielding work ethic, and his deep family bonds. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
As J. K. Rowling stated, “The ones that love us, never really leave us”.
In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by an infant son, Ronnie Mills and a brother, M. C. Mills.
Survivors include his loving children, Jamie Mills and wife, Angelisa, and Eric Mills; sisters, Clara Frederick, Swella Bingham, Sherilenna Disney and Carolyn Bays; brothers, E. J. and Edward Mills; treasured grandchildren, Mason, Weston, Alianna, Jensen and Lexi Mills; among other loved ones and dear friends.
His funeral service will be conducted in the chapel of the Knox Funeral Home Thursday, September 4 at 1 P.M. with Rev. Nick Honeycutt officiating. He will be laid to rest in the Obie Mills Cemetery.
Casket bearers will be Jamie Mills, Berneil Mills, Mason Mills and other family and friends.
Friends may visit at the funeral home Thursday after 12 Noon until the funeral hour.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Knox Funeral Home.
Send a condolence to the family of RONNIE LEE MILLS.
For questions about our obituaries or condolence service, please contact us. You may reach us via e-mail at knoxfuneralhome@barbourville.com. Reach us via phone by calling 606-546-2222.