Mary Earlene (Nutting) Mills, 89, Galena, died Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at her home surrounded by her family.
Born November 16, 1935, in Anderson, Mo., Mary was the only child of Ernest Rolland Nutting and Blanche Mae (Rhine) Nutting.
Earlene and James “Jim” Russell Mills, the love of her life, were united in marriage April 9, 1955, in Anderson, Mo. He preceded her in death, March 15, 2025, six months to the day of her service.
Earlene loved the Lord with all her heart holding steadfast and unmovable since being baptized in 1946. Earlene had many interests including Eastern Star, homeroom mom three times, church thrift store, A.R.M., Meals on Wheels and Bible school. She really enjoyed welcoming new folks to church with her warm and friendly smile. She also played the piano and organ for many years.
Earlene was preceded in death by her parents and husband, James “Jim” Russell Mills.
Survivors include two daughters, Kay Turner (Tank Daniel) of Columbus and Kathie Rose (Gary) of Galena; son, Kevin Mills (Bonnie) of Mt. Vernon, Mo.; Five grandchildren, Nikki Martin, Caleb Turner, J.R. Turner (Alicia), Josh Turner and Dylan Mills; eight great grandchildren, Carly, Kaleila, Evan, Zane, Gavin, Addilyn, Rylee and Wyatt; bonus granddaughter and caregiver, Jennifer Dillinger and two special cousins that were her “brother and sister” Norma King and Roger Rhine.
Funeral services were held at 1 p.m., Monday, September 15, at Derfelt’s Baxter Chapel. David Wands officiated. Burial followed in the Anderson Cemetery, Anderson, Mo. Pallbearers were Caleb Turner, Josh Turner, JR Turner, Gavin Turner, Dylan Mills, Evan Turner, and Zane Turner. Honorary Pallbearers were Kevin Mills, Gary Rose, Wyatt Turner and Tank Daniel. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes. com.