David Lee Mills' Obituary
David Lee Mills, 76, of Albemarle, North Carolina, entered his heavenly home on Friday, February 20, 2026, at Tucker Hospice House in Kannapolis, surrounded by the love of his family.
A memorial service celebrating David’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at First Baptist Church of Albemarle, with Rev. Dr. Kendell Cameron officiating. The family will receive friends in the church fellowship hall immediately following the service.
Born in Stanly County, North Carolina, David was the beloved son of the late Arlie Junior Mills and Bertha Wright Mills. Following graduation from Albemarle High School in 1968, he proudly served in the US Navy. He built his life on faith, hard work, and an unwavering love for others. After retiring as a supervisor with Alcoa, he continued working as a truck driver for Terminal Trucking and Shoe Show. No matter the job, David approached it with integrity, dedication, and a smile that made the day brighter for everyone around him.
A faithful member of First Baptist Church of Albemarle, David’s life was anchored in his love for the Lord. John 3:16 was more than a favorite verse—it was the foundation of how he lived. His faith was evident in his servant’s heart, his quiet generosity, and the way he made every person feel valued. He was one of the happiest, most encouraging souls you could ever meet—quick with a joke, gifted with a contagious laugh, and always ready to lift someone’s spirits.
To know David was to be cared for. His family remembers him as loving, devoted, and completely selfless. Family was his greatest earthly joy, second only to his relationship with Christ. He treasured every gathering, every shared meal, every simple moment together. His familiar words, “Can I get you anything?” were not just a question—they were the expression of a heart that delighted in serving others. Whether delivering doughnuts to surprise someone, offering a steady listening ear, or simply showing up when needed, David made people feel seen and loved.
He found happiness in life’s simple pleasures: a strong cup of coffee, good food, and the classic country music of the 80s and 90s. Conway Twitty, Brooks & Dunn, and especially Alan Jackson filled the soundtrack of his days—because to David, that was “real country.” He loved Westerns and admired Roy Rogers as his lifelong hero. He could quote lines from Lonesome Dove with perfect timing, especially his favorite: “I ain’t afraid to die, but it sure would be inconvenient.”
David also embraced adventure, riding his motorcycle across the country twice, collecting tractors, and spending time at the East Albemarle Xpress Lube swapping stories and laughter with friends. Wherever he went, joy seemed to follow.
Above all, David lived to love—to serve, to encourage, and to reflect Christ in the way he treated others. His presence brought warmth into every room, and his absence will be deeply felt.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Angela Coley Mills; his children, Leigh Anne Mills Hester (Chuck) of Benson and Jonathan David Mills (Danielle) of New London; and his precious grandchildren, Abram Mills, Bijou Hester, and Leighton Mills, who were truly the light of his life. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his sister, Elizabeth.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in David’s memory to First Baptist Church, 202 N. Second Street, Albemarle, NC 28001, or to Atrium Health Hospice and Palliative Care, 7800 Providence Road, Charlotte, NC 28226.
David’s legacy is one of steadfast faith, joyful service, deep love for family, and simple kindness. His was a life beautifully lived and generously given—deeply loved, and forever remembered.
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