Richard Mills, Jr.

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Richard Coke Mills Jr.
May16, 1938 – April 26, 2024

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Richard Coke Mills Jr. died peacefully at St. Anthony's Care Center with his family at his side. Graveside service will be 11 a.m. Friday, May 3, 2024 at Oakwood Cemetery.

Coke was the youngest child of Olivia Rucker Mills and Richard Coke Mills, Sr. He grew up on the family farm acquired in 1841 by his grandfather Seth P. Mills. The farm, adjacent to the old Lake Waco, provided numerous opportunities for fishing and hunting. His home was a welcoming place for family and friends who enjoyed activities on the farm and lake.

Coke attended Waco schools, graduating from Waco High School in 1956. In 1960 he graduated from Southern Methodist University.

Following his graduation, Coke spent two years in Washington D.C. working for Congressman Bob Poage in the heyday of Texas dominance in the house. He returned to Waco to begin law school at Baylor University School of Law in 1962. During his final year of law school, he married Margaret Schuler and they began a marriage of fifty nine years. Following their marriage, he concluded law school and practiced law with Smith and Segrest law firm. In 1968 he built his own law firm where he practiced law for fifty-five years. Coke was dedicated to his clients, often helping those who could not afford his services. He loved his community and state, serving on numerous Boards and Commissions. Coke served as Chairman of the Texas Board of Mental Health and Mental Retardation fighting for the rights and needs of the intellectually disabled and mentally ill.

Coke treasured the time spent with friends and family in his home as well as days at his farm in Mosheim with his son and Boykin Spaniels. Summers were particularly special when spent fishing New Mexico rivers and streams with his son, Richard, and guests.

He is predeceased by his parents, Coke and Olivia Mills, and sisters, Anne Underwood, Emily McKelvain and Margaret McDaniel.

Coke is survived by his wife of fifty nine years, Margaret Rose Mills, and one son, Richard Coke Mills, III.

He is also survived by nine nieces and nephews who were all very special in his life.