Carlton Neal Mills, Sr.

Mr. Carlton Neal Mills, Sr., died Friday, December 18, 2020, at his home in Elberton, GA following a brief illness.

Mr. Mills was born in Winter Haven, FL, and grew up in Vidalia, GA. Leaving Vidalia following high school, he moved to Brunswick, GA where he began his career with Southern Bell Telephone Company. Returning there following the war, he met and married LaVerne Anderson Mills, his wife of 67 years. They moved from Brunswick, GA to Elberton, GA in 1960 where he made his home for the remainder of his life. Mr. Mills was the son of the late Walter Lee Mills, Sr. and Alice Kitchens Mills, and was also preceded in death by three brothers: Roy Mills, James Mills, and Walter Mills.

He served in the United States Army during World War II from December 1943 to May 1946. He was stationed in Germany performing duties as a lineman/communication specialist, and was part of the German Occupation after the surrender. Mr. Mills retired from Southern Bell Telephone Company after 43 years of service, and has enjoyed a long 36 year retirement. Following his retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, woodworking, fishing, gardening, ballroom dancing, and taking cruises with his wife. Mr. Mills was a member of First Baptist Church of Elberton where he sang in the choir and served as a deacon for many years. He was active in the Elberton Rotary Club, holding many offices within that organization for many years.

In addition to his wife, LaVerne, Mr. Mills is also survived by a daughter, Denise Mills (Tom Troszak) of Asheville, NC; a son, Carlton Neal Mills, Jr. (Rhonda) of Gray, GA; five grandchildren: Drew Mills of Forest City, NC, Brent Mills (Lauren) of Gray, GA, Hannah Mills of Gray, GA, Forrest Kelly (Delaney Rae), of Barnardsville, NC, Michelle Troszak of Asheville, NC; one great-grandchild, Harper Mills of Gray, GA; and several nieces and nephews.

Due to COVID-19 concerns, the family respectfully requests no visits at this time. A private memorial service will be scheduled at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at www.berryfh.com.

Berry Funeral Home of Elberton, GA is in charge of arrangements.