Johnny Warren Mills, Sr.

Johnny Warren Mills, Sr., born on August 8, 1940, in Center, Texas, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2025, in Longview, Texas. He led a remarkable life dedicated to family, music and service, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by his family and friends.

Johnny graduated from Gladewater High School and served four years in the United States Army, demonstrating a commitment to both his country and community. Upon returning home, he became a well-respected Musician and then Sound Engineer for GM Studio where he worked tirelessly for many years before retiring in 2005. His contributions to the music industry were recognized when he became a proud member of the Federation of Musicians and the Country Music Songwriters Hall of Fame. Additionally, he was honored as Sound Engineer of the Year in 2002. The most significant highlights in his esteemed career were the countless friends he made, such as the 50 plus year music collaboration and loving friendship of Morris Shelton and Sherry Lee.

Johnny is survived by his beloved children which was by far his greatest pride in life; Faye Mills, Nelda Kay Everett, and Jonathan Warren Mills Jr. He also leaves behind cherished siblings, Charlie Mills and Syzette Sparks. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Gary Townsend, Ted Sparks, Traci Ann Yarbrough, Matthew Sparks, and Lanakai Ivordean Mills, as well as his treasured great-grandchildren: Claire Townsend, Landry Townsend, Gage Sparks, Kruz Sparks, Colt Sparks, Alex Herrera-Townsend, Trenton Yarbrough, Kaidence Sparks, and Kade Sparks, Kynlee Sparks.

Johnny was preceded in death by his parents, Gerone Mills and Bertie Jones Mills, and his siblings, Dorris Berry, Nell Irby, Alfred Mills, and Billy Gerone Mills.

His family and friends will gather to honor his life and achievements with visitation at Rader Funeral Home in Kilgore, Texas, on October 31, 2025, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM. A funeral service celebrating Johnny's life will take place at the same location on November 1, 2025, at 1:00 PM, followed by interment at Smith-James Cemetery in Center, Texas, at 3:00 PM.

Johnny Warren Mills, Sr. will be remembered for his passion for music, his dedication to all his crafts from gardening to wine making, and the indelible impact he made on the lives of those around him. He leaves behind a rich legacy of artistry and a loving family who will carry his memories forward.