James Daniel Mills, age 81, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2026, with his beloved wife and two children by his side.

Born on May 24, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, Jim lived a life defined by faith, family, and service. A proud United States Army veteran, he carried a deep sense of duty throughout his life. For many years, Jim was also a dedicated blood donor for the American Red Cross, quietly helping countless people through his selfless gift of giving.

Jim was a warm, down-to-earth, and genuinely friendly man who never met a stranger. He loved to talk and had a remarkable gift for conversation, making everyone feel welcome and valued. He was known for his incredible memory, especially when it came to sports statistics. Jim's love of sports was a lifelong passion. He played basketball from his youth well into his 50s and remained a devoted fan, faithfully cheering on his favorite Detroit teams.

Deeply connected to his Catholic faith, Jim was devoted to prayer and lived his beliefs through quiet acts of kindness, compassion, and service to others. Selfless by nature, he consistently put the needs of others before his own and found great fulfillment in helping those around him. His faith guided the way he lived, loved, and cared for his family and community.

Jim shared 55 wonderful years of marriage with his loving wife, Elaine. Together they built a family that was the center of his world. He was the proud father of Nicole and Mike (partner, Kristine Sanabria), and he treasured the special role he played as honorary father to Eric and Stephanie Brooks. He was also a beloved brother to Mary (Tom) Gearty. His greatest joy came from being "Ampa" to his beloved grandson, Lorenzo, and "Grampy" to Elorah and Avery Brooks.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, humility, kindness, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jim's life at a Memorial Gathering on Friday, July 31, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at O'Brien/Sullivan Funeral Home, 41555 Grand River Avenue, Novi, Michigan 48375.

Memorial Gathering will continue on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Mass at St. James Catholic Church, 46325 West 10 Mile Road, Novi, Michigan 48374.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a cause that reflects Jim's caring and compassionate spirit. https://www.stjude.org/