J.D. Mills

J.D. Mills, 89, of Houma, Louisiana, passed away on March 9, 2026, after a brief illness. Born on April 15, 1936, in McCoy, Louisiana, he was raised in Atlanta, Texas, before making Houma his home for many years.

He is survived by his loving wife of more than 63 years, Joyce Stratton Mills; his daughter, Leah Mills-MacPherson of Pearland, Texas; his son, James Mills, and wife Niccole Keating Mills of Houma; and his cherished grandchildren, Lauren Rae Mills of Houston, Texas, and Stratton Joseph Mills and wife Julianna Stewart Mills of Conroe, Texas. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Gene Doiron of Houma, along with many dear cousins, nieces, and nephews.

J.D. was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Bessie Lee Richards Mills; his siblings, Robert Mills of Texarkana, Arkansas, William “Billy” Mills, Wanda Mills Doiron, and Richard Mills; his sister-in-law, Helen Pellegrin Mills; his niece, Robyn Doiron; and his great-niece, Besse Meryl Mills, all of Houma.

He carried fond memories of his childhood in Texas and lifelong friendships, including one that spanned more than 82 years with his dear friend Mike Laden. A proud member of the Atlanta High Rabbits football and basketball teams, he later enjoyed quarter-mile drag racing as a young man. J.D. served his country for over a decade in the Louisiana Army National Guard and the U.S. Army Reserve, retiring as a Staff Sergeant. He met the love of his life, Joyce, at First Baptist Church, and they married on August 28, 1962. A longtime member and deacon of Mulberry Baptist Church, he worked for Shell Oil Company for 22 years. In retirement, his greatest joy came from his grandchildren, Lauren and Stratton, who filled his heart and world. An avid sports fan who followed the Houston Astros from their Colt .45 days, he loved hunting, fishing, and the outdoors. He tended gardens for years with friends, including his longtime companion Lou Eschete, and took pleasure in sharing his vegetables with family, friends, neighbors, and teachers at Mulberry Elementary School. In later years, he found peace in flower gardening at home. Above all, J.D. lived a life of quiet service to his family, friends, community, and country. He will be deeply missed, yet those who loved him find comfort knowing he is at home with the Lord.