Tammy S. Mills

Tammy S. Mills, 64, of Larwill, Indiana passed away Wednesday, July 17, 2024, following a courageous battle with complications resulting from Crohn’s disease. Born September 22, 1959, in Marion, Indiana, she was a daughter of the late Frank and Janice (Brown) Rice. 

Tammy graduated from Eastbrook High School in Upland, Indiana with the Class of 1977. After connecting on the CB radio under the callsigns, “Mystery Lady” and “Channel Dancer,” she married Rick Mills on October 22, 1977, in Hartford City, Indiana. While her greatest accomplishment was serving as a homemaker and raising her four children with unwavering love and dedication, Tammy also had a fulfilling career working various retail and retail management positions. She also spent some time working at the Kosciusko County Humane Society, pouring herself into improving the circumstances for animals in need. Her final and most cherished employment was the time she spent working alongside her husband at Gills Manufacturing, the factory they came to co-own after more than 30 years of support to Rick as he worked his way into the ability to purchase it. 

An avid animal lover, her hobbies often included an animal connection. After growing up with horses, Tammy spent many years barrel racing as a member of the Contest Riders Association (CRA), a hobby she shared with her daughters in their youth. She owned several pets, and almost always had a bird in her possession. A dear friend to many, Tammy spent many hours walking the Boardwalk near her home and pouring herself into her church community. A woman of faith, she was known for her kind heart and infectious positivity, including her mantra of “Attitude of Gratitude” which inspired many to focus on the good in life. 

Tammy was not only a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother; she was the cornerstone of a family bound together by love and support. Her nurturing presence created a warm and welcoming home where laughter rang free, and memories were cherished. As we mourn the physical loss of Tammy, we find solace in knowing that her spirit lives on in the countless lives she touched. Her kindness, and unyielding love will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege to call her family or friend.

Tammy is survived by her loving husband, Rick Mills; children, Shannon (Robb) Evans, Alisha (Will) Furlong, Kaylan Mills, and Corey (Mackenzie) Mills; grandchildren, Marlee, Kayden, and Jamison Mills, Cameron Evans, Maddison (AJ) Anglin, and Braden, Jace, and Ethan Furlong; great granddaughter, Aurora Anglin; and siblings, Terry (Cindy) Rice, Sherry Rice, Timmy Rice, and Frank "Tootie" (Betty) Rice.

A Celebration of Life will be 1:00 pm on Friday, July 26, 2024, with calling one hour prior at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Dr., Columbia City.  Inurnment will be in Troy Presbyterian Cemetery.  Memorial donations may be given in memory of Tammy toward her funeral and medical expenses. Donations may be mailed to DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Dr., Columbia City. Visit www.DeMoneyGrimes.com to send Tammy's family online condolences or sign the online guest book.