Phillip Norris Mills, most affectionately known as Phil or PopPaw, passed away Thursday, November 12, 2020, at Gordon Hospice House.

Phil was deeply devoted to God, his family, and his country. He was born on September 1, 1932, in Alexandria, Va., the youngest child of Clyde Marvin Mills and Lena Norris Mills. Phil was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Barbara Timberlake.

After high school graduation, Phil joined the U.S. Navy. He proudly served for four years on the USS Macon during the Korean War, and he was a member of the American Legion Post 65.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 65 years, Jerolyn Griffin Mills; a son, Phil (Janis); daughters, Jeri Lyn Koontz (Steve), Tracy Dolan (Gene), and Paige McCarter (Keith); and sister, Faye Goforth. Also cherishing his memory are grandchildren, Justin Mills, Andrew (Sara) Koontz, Lauren Mills, Matt Koontz, Cody McCarter, and Ryan McCarter. Phil’s great-grandchildren, Maddox and Weston Koontz, also brought him great joy and endless smiles!

Phil was a devout Christian. He served as a Sunday School teacher, deacon, Sunday School Department head, and volunteered with Baptist Men, making trips to areas devastated by floods or hurricanes. Phil and Jerry served on a mission trip to Germany. His civic duties were important parts of his life as well. Phil was an active member of the Statesville Civitan Club, serving as chapter president and later as the Western District Civitan N.C. Governor. If you knew Phil, then you were blessed by his generosity, kindness, quick wit, and sense of humor. Phil was an honorable man who will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gordon Hospice House, First Baptist Church – Davie Avenue, or any Veteran Charity of your choice.

A memorial service will be conducted November 21, 2020, at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church, Davie Avenue, in Statesville. Attendees will be required to wear masks. The family request to visit with friends and family following the service outside the church.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.troutmanfuneralhome.com.

Troutman Funeral Home is serving the family.