Judith “Judy” Ann Mills, 78, of Auburndale, Florida, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on February 14, 2026. Born on May 7, 1947, Judy lived a life marked by vibrant faith, joyful service, and unwavering love for her family and community.

Judy was the oldest of six siblings and, from a young age, became like a second mother to many of them, helping her hardworking mother care for a busy household. Her grandmother taught her to sew and cook, planting nurturing seeds that Judy carried with her throughout her life. She attended Hillsborough High School in Tampa, Florida, and spent many cherished weekends visiting her grandmother in Auburndale—where she would eventually meet Bill.

On June 26, 1966, at just 19 years old, she married the love of her life, Bill Mills. Their marriage became a beautiful testament to devotion and partnership for nearly 60 years. Early in their life together, Judy traveled faithfully across the country by Bill’s side while he served and trained in the United States Navy. Those years of adventure and sacrifice strengthened a bond that carried them through decades of ministry, family life, and deep friendship before they returned home to Auburndale to plant lasting roots.

A gifted interior decorator, Judy began her career at Terrell’s Carpet & Drapery Shop before building her own successful business, designing beautiful homes throughout Polk County. She later shared her talents at Blackburn’s Interiors before joyfully joining Bill in retirement. Judy had an eye for beauty and a heart for creating spaces that felt like home—both in the houses she designed and around her own kitchen table.

Her first love was Jesus, and her great earthly love was Bill. Together they built a life centered on faith and family. Judy poured herself into her children and grandchildren, who brought immeasurable joy and purpose to her days. She celebrated their achievements, listened to their stories, and made each one feel deeply known and loved. Her love was fierce, joyful, and constant.

Judy faithfully served at Gateway Assembly of God, offering her time and talents with unwavering dedication. She coordinated worship and praise, led Vacation Bible School and Christmas musicals, honored veterans and celebrated elders, and supported women’s ministry with grace and creativity—especially the beloved annual Ladies’ Tea, where every detail reflected her thoughtful touch. She mentored girls through Missionettes and Powettes, planned youth activities, and created a safe, welcoming place for children to grow in faith.

She loved music of every generation—worshiping on Sunday mornings and singing along to favorites like Chris Tomlin, Pat Barrett, CeCe Winans, and Elvis Presley. She often said Chris Tomlin was her favorite.

Judy also expressed her love through her amazing Southern cooking. Her kitchen was a gathering place where no one left hungry and everyone felt welcome. Whether preparing meals for family, church events, or Sunday afternoons at home, she cooked with generosity and joy. At holidays, she made sure there was always more than enough for everyone. For Judy, food was another form of ministry—an extension of her servant’s heart.

Judy and Bill devoted countless hours to the Auburndale High School Marching Band Booster program, traveling and serving alongside the band during Brian and Jessica’s high school years and beyond.

Judy was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Jean Prevatt; her father, George Prevatt; and her brothers, Ken Weaver and Wayne Weaver. She leaves behind her devoted husband, Bill Mills; her son, Brian Mills (Heather); her daughter, Jessica Clemmons (Justin); her cherished grandsons Jacob Bayandrian, Connor Mills, Jaxon Mills, and Jonah Clemmons; bonus grandchildren Kasey Clemmons and Kally (Benji Cervantes); bonus great-grandson Esteban Cervantes; her sister Sandee Weaver Melear; her brothers Kirby Weaver and Timmy Prevatt; and a host of extended family and dear friends.

Judy’s life was a testimony of faith lived out daily. She loved deeply, served faithfully, and gave generously of her time and heart. The legacy she leaves is found in her family, her church, and the many lives she touched with kindness and quiet strength. Though she will be deeply missed, we find comfort in knowing she is home with her Savior, and that her love and example will continue to guide us.

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 7, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Legacy Church, 201 Dickey Road, Auburndale, FL 33823.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Judy’s honor may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at: https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?px=8733581&fr_id=154021&pg=personal