Joel's obituary
Joel Lee Mills, 83, passed away on June 18, 2025, in Idaho Falls, Idaho.
Born on February 1, 1942, Joel was a sixth generation Texan and a descendant of Alamo defender William Mills. He was born in Denton, Texas but relocated to College Station during fifth grade, attending A&M Consolidated Middle and High Schools, later earning both a Bachelor and Master of Architecture from Texas A&M University. He dedicated his professional life to architecture, maintaining a private practice in San Antonio, Texas for almost 50 years.
Joel served his country with distinction as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Vietnam. His service was recognized with the awarding of the Bronze Star.
Joel had a passion for restoring classic automobiles - a passion which he passed on to his son and grandsons. He cherished spending time with his family and was widely known as someone who was always willing to help anyone in need. Joel had a unique and deep connection with wildlife and was able to get wild deer and squirrels to eat from his hand. His dry sense of humor will be missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his son, Joel; daughter, Ann Darlin; grandsons Alexander, Ian, and Noble; granddaughter Ruth Marigold; brothers Jerry and Jay; and sister Judy. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, June, and sister Jane Smith.
He was laid to rest in the Idaho State Veteran's Cemetery in Blackfoot, Idaho on June 25, 2025 beside his wife June.