James "Jim" 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. Whether discussing family, current events, or his favorite sports teams, Jim could always keep a conversation going. He was known for his incredible memory, especially when it came to sports statistics. His love of sports was lifelong, and he rarely missed cheering on his favorite Detroit teams—the Lions, Tigers, and Pistons—as well as his beloved Michigan State Spartans.

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. His greatest joy came from being "Ampa" to his beloved grandson, Lorenzo, and "Grampy" to Elorah and Avery Brooks. Nothing made Jim happier than spending time with his family and creating lasting memories together.

Jim's passion for sports extended beyond being a fan. He played basketball from his high school years well into his 50s, demonstrating a lifelong love of the game. He also shared that passion by coaching recreational league basketball, encouraging athletes both on and off the court.

Jim will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his warm heart, his generosity, and the genuine interest he took in every person he met. He leaves behind a legacy of love, humility, kindness, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew him. Above all, he will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, proud Ampa and Grampy, faithful friend, coach, veteran, and man of God.

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/

Though deeply missed, Jim's love, faith, laughter, and example will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him forever.