Marion Gray Mills

Marion Gray Mills was born on August 26, 1945, in Swift Creek outside of Ayden, North Carolina. He was the seventh of eight boys and one older sister born to Fernando Mills and Alice Carey Mills. All siblings have predeceased Marion. He was the last surviving of the Mills children. At an early age, Marion’s Mother passed, and he was raised by Charlie and Mariah (known as Cousin Sang) Darden. Marion attended school in Chocowinity County, Washington, North Carolina. He graduated from South Ayden High School in Ayden, North Carolina. After high school graduation, Marion joined the United States Air Force where he served four years before receiving an honorable discharge on June 1, 1967. Shortly after his military service Marion moved to New Haven, Connecticut to start a new life. He was employed by Pratt & Whitney, AVCO Lycoming Textron, Geometric Tool, and United Aluminum Corporation. Marion enjoyed playing basketball and watching sports on television. Mills as he was affectionately called by family, had a great sense of humor with an infectious smile and laugh. Mills always had a joke or a story to tell. In his later years, he also became a self-taught guitarist. He would gladly set up his guitar and amplifier and serenade anyone who would listen. Marion was blessed with two children. He shared a special relationship with his loving and devoted daughter, Shawn Webb, often bragging about her accomplishments as a bodybuilder. He was equally proud of his namesake, his son, Marion Grant Mills and his rapid advancement to manager at his workplace. Over fifty years ago, Marion met his love and life partner, Verlene Treadwell. He lovingly called her “Sarge”, but he was prompt to let it be known that she was his significant other. Together they shared a loving and welcoming home for a blended family of children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, family and friends. For many years Marion and Verlene took annual trips to North and South Carolina. He loved his nieces and nephews and extended family members. Marion shared a special relationship with his nephew, William Mills, who frequently came to visit and to check on him. Mills fought a good fight. He persevered and handled his illness with great strength. His presence will be missed by many. Marion leaves to cherish fond memories; his devoted companion, Verlene Treadwell, his children; Shawn Webb, Marion Grant Mills, Bruce Bagley, Bernice (Harold) Clark, Bridgette (Bernie) Ford, Melisa Coleman, Felisa Treadwell, James (Aracely) Treadwell. Eleven grandchildren, Rebecca Webb, Edward Webb IV, Bridell (Latisha) Boykin, Sonny (Chakenna) Bagley, Mario Boykin, Emron Treadwell, Jocelyn Johnson, Semaj Treadwell, Jasmine Cornitcher, Kennisa Coleman and Natalia Ford, great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Marion Gray Mills

August 26, 1945 - March 20, 2023