David Frank Mills, age 82, of Chelsea, Michigan, passed away on April 16, 2026. Born on June 20, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois, David was the second son of Pastor C. Frank and Naomi (Petersen) Mills. He earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Eastern Michigan University and completed additional postgraduate studies at several institutions. David devoted more than 40 years to education, serving as a secondary school administrator with the Washtenaw Intermediate School District, Dexter Community Schools, and later as an educational consultant for the State of Michigan.

Throughout his career, David was known for his unwavering commitment to students and colleagues. He made it a priority to know every student by name and fostered an environment where all felt seen and valued. His presence in the hallways, his steady encouragement, and his signature “Mills smile” left a lasting impression on students and staff alike. David had a remarkable ability to connect with people, whether at school, church, or in the community, and he carried a sense of optimism that made every day feel brighter.

David married Nancy Garon in 1964, and together they raised five children—Gregory Mills, Aaron (Jennifer) Mills, Amy (Martin) Boos, David (Amber) Mills, and Nancy (Nathaniel) Lussier. He cherished time with his family, enjoying the outdoors, traveling throughout the United States and Canada, and taking weekend trips to places like Greenfield Village. He is also survived by his grandchildren—Alexander, Isaac, Ethan, Clare, Natalie, Dominic, Matthew, Mason, and Robert—his brother, Lawrence “Larry” (Brenda) Mills, and his nephew, Nathan (Kelly) Mills.

In 1995, David married Barbara Martin, and together they built a life filled with love and shared purpose. David embraced Barbara’s adult children—Jon (Lori) Martin, Jami Foreback, and Lila Bergroth—and their grandchildren: Mackenzie, Tyler, Mattheson, Max, Jack, Niklas, and Lukas. David and Barbara shared a passion for travel, especially to the American Southwest, and took great pride in gardening, tending their koi pond, and supporting the many activities of their grandchildren.

David was preceded in death by his parents. He will be deeply missed by his wife, Barbara; his children and stepchildren; his grandchildren; and the many family members, friends, colleagues, and former students whose lives he touched.

John 14: 1-3

A Celebration of Life will be held in June. More information will be provided at a later date.