Obituary

Earlene K. Mills (“Lynn,” “Lena”), 82, of Dayton, Ohio, passed away on February 28, 2026. She was born on April 1, 1943, in Englewood, Ohio, to Harold and Dorothy Weidner. Lynn grew up in Englewood and graduated from Northmont High School. She went on to earn her undergraduate degree in Education from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. Passionate about helping young people learn and grow, she began her career as an elementary school teacher.

It was during those years that she met the love of her life, Jon “Gary” Mills, at a party in Dayton, Ohio. From that day forward, they were inseparable—devoted, loving, and at times delightfully feisty soulmates. After the birth of their first son, Jon C., Lynn chose to devote her time fully to raising their growing family, which would become four sons and one very loved husband.

Later in life, Lynn discovered a new professional path as an Estée Lauder sales representative at Elder-Beerman in Centerville, Ohio. Her warmth, exuberance, and genuine openness to others made her a natural fit, and she flourished in that role until her retirement in 2009.

In retirement, Lynn embraced one of the great joys of her life: her dogs. She adored and cared deeply for Sophie, Simon, Charlie, Nicci, and Sam, each of whom brought her comfort, companionship, and endless smiles.

Lynn is survived by her beloved husband, Jon “Gary” Mills; her sons Jon C., Brian D., Jon G. Jr., and Christopher S. Mills; her daughter-in-law Anna; and her grandchildren Shadow Wolf, Wesley, and Jamie Marie Mills. She will also be missed deeply by several nieces, nephews, cousins and other extended family members as well as by several surviving close friends, and all who were  touched by her zest for life, love for fun, genuine kindness, sharp humor, and welcoming spirit.

Lynn will be forever cherished for her vibrant energy, her devotion to family, and her unwavering love for Gary — a partnership that shaped a lifetime.

A Gathering for Remembering in Lynn’s honor will be held at The Wellington in Dayton on Saturday, March 21, 2026. The family will receive friends and loved ones from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at The Wellington of Dayton for fellowship, food, and the sharing of memories celebrating Lynn’s life. The family requests, in lieu of flowers, please make donations to their local Hospice.