Lonnie Mills

In Loving Memory of Lonnie Gerard Mills

June 17, 1965 – May 27, 2025

With deep sorrow and profound love, we celebrate the life of Lonnie Gerard Mills, who passed away on May 27, 2025, surrounded by friends and family after a long illness. His life was marked by faith, service, and unwavering love for those around him. Born on June 17, 1965, in Newark, New Jersey, to the late Lonnie Mills and Enid D. Mills, Lonnie was a proud Newark native who pursued education at Newark Public Schools, Essex County College, and Sanford Brown Institute.

Lonnie worked at the Innovative Pain Center in Avenel, NJ, until his retirement in 2012. On February 17, 1998, he married the love of his life, Kimberly Shepherd, in Union, NJ. Together, they shared 27 beautiful years of marriage, raising their beloved stepson, Deshaun (Shaun) Shepherd-Phillips, and building a home filled with love, laughter, and strong Christian values.

A faithful servant of Christ, Lonnie was a dedicated member of Faith Temple New Hope Church (NJ), Visions of God Family Worship (NJ), and most recently Wake Chapel Church in Raleigh, NC. For 25 years, he served faithfully as a leader and co-coordinator in the Marriage Ministry and was also a certified marriage mentor, offering wisdom and encouragement to couples. Additionally, he served with passion and excellence in the church’s AV - CD Ministry.

Known for his unwavering loyalty to the Dallas Cowboys, Lonnie was a true sports enthusiast. He was also a passionate foodie with a particular love for international cuisine, especially Asian dishes. An avid traveler and a Marvel Comics fan, Lonnie embraced life’s adventures with joy and curiosity.

Lonnie is survived by his beloved wife, Kimberly Mills; his stepson, Deshaun (Shaun) Shepherd-Phillips; and his cherished "puppy-son," Seven. He is also survived by his stepmother, Donna Mills; his siblings, Audrey, Yashica (Nick), Jason, Melissa, Sarah, and Benjamin; and a host of loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Lonnie’s legacy of love, laughter, wisdom, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23

A Celebration of Life!

Saturday, June 7, 2025

Wake Chapel Church

3805 Tarheel Club Road, Raleigh, NC 27604

Visitation & Viewing: 12pm - Service: 1pm