Laverne Carlos (L.C.) Mills, born in Sheffield, Alabama, died in Mobile, Alabama on Monday after an extended battle with Alzheimer’s.
Born and raised in Sheffield, Laverne joined the Army Air Corps 15th Air Force Division shortly after Pearl Harbor. Stationed in Stornara, Italy, Laverne flew as a flight engineer on B-24s with the 456th Bomb Group. After numerous missions, including a bail-out, by his faith and the grace of God, he returned to Sheffield as a World War II veteran and married his sweetheart. They remained in Sheffield until moving to Mobile in 2009.
Laverne retired from Union Carbide in 1980 with the closing of the Sheffield plant. In the early years of his retirement he enjoyed gardening, woodworking, fishing, and model railroading. He was an active member of Highland United Methodist Church. Laverne never met a stranger and was always ready to lend a helping hand to his fellowman.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 68 years, Julia Weaver Mills.
He is survived by their son, Jimmy Mills (Cindy); grandson, Randy Mills (Alicia); and other relatives and friends.
Laverne was a kind and loving husband and father who had a tremendous love for God, country, and family.
The family wishes to convey their sincere appreciation to the entire staff of Gordon Oaks Health and Rehabilitation for the excellent care and numerous acts of kindness extended to Laverne, as well as the entire family, during his lengthy stay. They would also like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Saad Hospice, especially his caregiver, Venessa Luckett, for her care and compassion.
Graveside services will be held in Mobile Memorial Gardens on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2014, at 10 a.m. with Chaplain Zach Thompson officiating. The family will receive friends at Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home from 9 a.m. until the service hour. Military honors will be rendered by American Legion Post 250. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to your favorite charity .
