Milton Balzer

Funeral Alternatives of Washington - Tumwater

Francis Mills

Livingston Cremation and Funeral Care

Jenn Gay

<p>Viewing will take place starting at 10:00am, followed by a service at 11:00am. Entombment to directly follow at Mountain View Mausoleum. All are welcome.</p>

Celebrating the Life of Susan Alexander

Margaret Lalor

Susan Alexander

Mountain View Mortuary & Cemetery

Stephanie  Abene

Francis Halpin Mills, age 79, passed away peacefully at his home in Howell, Michigan, on July 14, 2025.

Born on July 9, 1946, Francis was the youngest of four children and was preceded in death by his siblings Donald, Rachel, and  Lawrence. He served honorably in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, carrying his service with quiet pride and strength.

Francis spent much of his life as a professional painter, later establishing his own business, Two Coats Painting, which was known for its quality and integrity. Earlier in life, he and his beloved wife Carol Mills embraced a quieter lifestyle on Bois Blanc Island, where they operated a small general store called Hawk’s Landing. Those years were among the most meaningful of his life, filled with companionship, simplicity, and nature.

Francis had a deep appreciation for music, storytelling, and the company of friends. He had a quick wit, a strong sense of independence, and a deep love for his dogs—especially Aslan, who remained a constant in his stories and heart.

He was preceded in death by his wife Carol, who passed in 2017. Her ashes will be laid to rest alongside his. Francis embraced Carol’s children; Christine Bowens, Robert Clark, and the late Camille Placinto, as his own. He was affectionately known as “Papa Hal” to Christine’s daughters, Kayleigh Ferrell and Rachel Bowens, and as a proud grandfather figure to Camille’s children, James Placinto and Jessica Placinto.

In his final years, Francis shared a profound bond with his great-nephew Aaron Jewell and with Jenn Gay, both of whom provided unwavering love, care, and companionship - ensuring that Francis remained independent, respected, and deeply loved until the very end.

Honoring the Life of Francis Halpin Mills

Vietnam Veteran | United States Marine Corps
📅 Thursday, July 31, 2025

Family, friends, and fellow veterans are invited to honor and escort the life of Francis Halpin Mills—a proud Marine, devoted companion, and dearly loved member of his community and family.

Motorcycle Escort & Military Burial
📍 Staging Location: American Spirit Centre
📍 Address: 10590 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI 48661
🕗 Arrival: 8:00 AM
🕣 Departure (Kickstands Up): 8:15 AM
📍 Burial Site: Great Lakes National Cemetery
📍 Address: 4200 Belford Rd, Holly, MI 48442
🕙 Military Honors Service: 10:00 AM

Celebration of Life Gathering
📍 Location: Whitmore Lake Rod and Gun Club
📍 Address: 11150 Lemen Rd, Whitmore Lake, MI 48189
🕐 Live Acoustic Music: Begins at 1:00 PM and continues into the evening
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Friendly: Playground on-site and lake access for fishing

In Lieu of Flowers
Live plants may be sent directly to the Rod and Gun Club to honor Francis’s memory:
📍 Delivery Address: 11150 Lemen Rd, Whitmore Lake, MI 48189

When words can't fully express what we want to say, sometimes a small gift can. Visit our Memorial Store for personalized gifts, keepsake jewelry and to plant a memorial tree.

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Francis Mills Obituary | Livingston Cremation and Funeral Care