Richard Wayne Mills

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Service Schedule
Celebration of Life Service
Fairfield Bay Yacht Club
Fairfield Bay, AR  72088
Saturday, March 16, 2024
3:00 p.m.
Richard Wayne Mills

of Fairfield Bay, AR

August 26, 1953 - March 1, 2024

Richard Wayne Mills, born on August 26, 1953 passed away peacefully on March 1, 2024 at the age of 70.

Having spent many years before settling by the shores of Greers Ferry Lake, Richard's profound love for the outdoors was a central aspect of his life. As a longtime member and staunch supporter of the Fairfield Bay Yacht Club, his commitment to fostering camaraderie among fellow yacht club members was unparalleled. For many years, Richard served as Commodore of the Fairfield Bay Yacht Club, guiding the organization with wisdom, integrity and boundless enthusiasm. Under his leadership, the club flourished, becoming not only a hub for lake enthusiasts but also a tight-knit community where friendships thrived. Richard's passion for the yacht club extended beyond mere membership; it was a cornerstone of his identity. He found immense joy in organizing events, mentoring new members and sharing his knowledge with others. His infectious spirit inspired countless individuals to embrace the joys of boating, fishing, wine and horse racing, forging lasting connections.

Richard possessed an extraordinary talent for repairing things of all kinds. Whether it was a boat motor, a malfunctioning engine or household items, he approached every challenge with determination and resourcefulness, demonstrating his remarkable ability to mend and improve things in need.

Richard is lovingly survived by his soul mate of 44 years, Mary Mills and his children, Michele (Kouichi) Matsunaga, Marcia (Alan) Byers and Nathan (Ashley) May. He is also survived by four grandchildren, three siblings, a multitude of nieces, nephews and numerous other beloved family members. He was welcomed into the afterlife by the embrace of many beloved souls who now journey alongside him, probably listening to his stories and enjoying a cheeseburger in paradise.

Richard's legacy will endure through the countless memories shared on the shimmering waters of Greers Ferry Lake, the enduring bonds forged within the Fairfield Bay Yacht Club and the numerous friendships he cultivated throughout his life.

A celebration of his life will be held during the annual membership drive for the Fairfield Bay Yacht Club at 3:00 PM on March 16, 2024 at the Fairfield Bay Marina. In honoring Richard's memory, the club aims to continue his legacy of warmth and community spirit by welcoming new members with open arms and fostering increased camaraderie among all who share a love for the lake and boating.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that you honor Richard's memory by performing an act of random kindness.

Richard will be dearly missed by his family, friends and all who had the pleasure of navigating alongside him. Though he may have set sail on his final journey, his spirit will forever remain anchored in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

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7 Condolence(s)
Barbara Hastings
Bend, OR
Liked
Saturday, March 16, 2024

I love you, my sweet little brother. And Mary, my heart breaks for you not having my beautiful kind brother by your side. I’m so sorry to have missed the streaming memorial. At least, as the memorial is happening, I am writing this so that my energy is still felt somehow.
Tears flow as I write this,
I will miss you more than words can say. With all my heart,
Barbara

Bill Patterson
Punta gorda, FL
Liked
Tuesday, March 5, 2024

You will always be in my heart

Amanda (Robins) Mason
Greenbrier, AR
Liked
Tuesday, March 5, 2024

So very sorry to hear this Mary, sending so much love your way.

Amanda Jane (AJ)
Lakeland, TN
Liked
Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Richard is my favorite uncle, but he was like my second father. My heart is still breaking. He always had an adventure planned when the kids and I came to visit he and Mary. Fly high Dee Waaaayne! That’s an inside joke, but I know it will make Mary smile. I love you Mary! Call me anytime and I mean it.

Tony and Peggy Gurske
FFB, AR
Liked
Tuesday, March 5, 2024

God speed Richard we shall forever love and miss you!

Michelle A.
Pawleys Island, SC
Liked
Monday, March 4, 2024

He was always there, always nice and always smiling. I'm sorry for your loss. I know he is with God looking at an amazing lake view. Love you

Susie Neighbours Mullen
Shirley, AR
Liked
Monday, March 4, 2024

I just heard the news and my heart is breaking for you. We have been friends since 1976! Mary, I love you! I don’t have words!