Obituary of Thomas John Mills

Thomas John Mills, 86, of State College, died Sunday, February 28, 2021, at Hearthside Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.

Born September 24, 1934, in Philipsburg, he was the son of the late Fred and Margaret Watson Mills. On October 14, 1961 he married Linda Edwards, who survives.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by three children, Thomas J. Mills II and his wife Kelly from Verdi, NV, Christopher P. Mills and his wife Anita from Danville, CA, and Julia Anne Sprinkle and her husband Brian from Bellefonte; two grandchildren, Briana Younkin and Jordan Mills; and one great-grandson, Emmit Fuentes.

Thomas graduated from Houtzdale – Woodward – Brisbin High School in 1952. He earned his bachelor's degree in chemistry from Lock Haven University in 1956, and master's degree in Counseling Education from Penn State University in 1960. During his tenure at State High he taught in the Science department as a chemistry teacher, he also was an assistant football coach and athletic director before his retirement in 1993.

Thomas was a member of Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church. He enjoyed fly fishing and fly tying.

Visitation will be Thursday, March 4, 2021 from 2-5 pm at Koch Funeral Home, 2401 S. Atherton St., State College.

Funeral Mass will be Friday, March 5, 2021 at 10:30 am at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church, 820 Westerly Parkway, State College with Father Jonathan Dickson officiating.

Burial will be in Centre County Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Ethel Beaver Fund at www.centrecountypa.gov/325/Ethel-Beaver-Fund.

Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com or visit us on Facebook.