Wayne Mills

Wayne Byard Mills, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away quietly, surrounded by his family on June 11, 2025, at Brookestone View. Wayne was born on April 20, 1926, to Frank and Bertha Mills on the family farm near Westerville, Nebraska. He was the third of six children.

A proud graduate of Westerville High School in 1943, Wayne answered the call to serve his country during World War II, enlisting in the United States Army in 1944 at the age of 18. He was wounded in combat on February 2, 1945, and was awarded the Purple Heart for his service and sacrifice. He served during WWII in the European Theater, was honorably discharged in 1947, and returned to Nebraska, where he devoted his life to farming and family.

On June 4, 1950, he married the love of his life, Marvel Brown. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, hard work, and deep devotion to family. Their remarkable 75-year marriage was a true love story and a blessing to all who witnessed it. They were the proud parents of three children: Diane (John) Farrand, Jim Hartman, and Shelly (Gary) Amsberry.

After retiring from farming, Wayne enjoyed golfing, sharing stories, and laughter with "the coffee gang," and cheering on the Nebraska Cornhuskers. He took great joy in following his family's activities and interests, always their proudest supporter. A devoted member of the Broken Bow United Methodist Church, the American Legion Post 126, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 3576. Wayne was active in VFW initiatives, the church, and community service projects. His patriotism was unmistakable, particularly through his personal mission to place flagpoles and American flags throughout the community and in the yards of family members. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, deep faith, sense of duty, and enduring love for his family and community. Wayne was humble and kind.

He is survived by his cherished wife of 75 years, Marvel; their three children; six grandchildren; and 13 great­-grandchildren. He is also lovingly remembered by his sister, Sylvia Happold; brother, Paul Mills; sisters-in-law, Ardyth Mills, Elaine Mills, Betty (Chuck) Church, and Leona (Gene) Williams; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Bertha Mills; his brothers, Harry, Dana, and Ted; and brothers-in-law, Lorell Brown and Gene Williams.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the entire staff at Brookestone View for their kindness, compassion, and support in caring for Wayne (and his family).

A celebration of Wayne's life will be held on Monday, June 16th, at 2:00 PM at the Broken Bow United Methodist Church, and graveside services with Military Honors will follow the service at Westerville Cemetery. A visitation for family and friends will be held on Sunday, June 15th, 1-5 PM, with family from 3 to 5 PM at Govier Brothers Mortuary in Broken Bow, Nebraska.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Custer County Foundation in support of the Mills-Hartman Scholarship and the Westerville Cemetery.