Ronald L. Mills, 81, of Harrisonville, Missouri, passed away peacefully on November 7 , 2025, when God called him home to be with his Lord and savior. He was reunited with his beloved parents, Josephine and William; his brothers Leonard and Junior; and his sisters Anne, Rachel, and Mary.A resident of Harrisonville for over 40 years, Ronald spent his life working as a bricklayer—building not just homes, but a legacy of hard work, loyalty, and love. He was a man of deep generosity, always ready to lend a hand. And while at times he could be ornery, stubborn, and—by his own admission—“a true Mills,”. Those who knew him best saw the kindest soul, loyal friend, sharp wit, and a man who would do anything for the people he loved.
Ronald’s passions were as colorful as his personality. He loved telling jokes, gardening, fishing, hunting and searching for antiques and coins at estate sales. He had a fondness for Jack Daniel’s, booze cruises, and road trips to Rich Hill. He delighted in apple fritters from Kohen Bakery, Osceola cheese, and feeding backyard critters. He found peace driving through the countryside in his truck, mowing grass, and sitting on his driveway with a glass of iced tea and a cool breeze. Though never known as a cat person, he fell in love with Buff, the neighborhood cat. He found joy in morel mushroom hunting, diamond art (except when it was all one color), cooking, and most recently, watching YouTube videos.
A proud veteran, Ronald served in the U.S. Air Force as a crew chief for the F-4 Phantom. His love for country ran deep, and he was especially proud that his son Aaron who followed in his footsteps by serving in the U.S. Air Force, and that his grandson Gavin continues the legacy of serving our country in the U.S. Marine Corps. Ronald cherished their stories and the bond they shared through service.
Ronald was rich in friendships. His best friend Scott whom he often got teary eyed when talking about, he said "Scott was like a brother to me and I knew if I needed anything all I had to do was make a phone call." he helped Scott work cattle and tackle anything around the farm. Amongst his many other friends were Mark from Flywheels where he spent many hours BS-ing with. He shared countless laughs with Dave, Don, Craig, Frank, Buzz, and Jerry, and held a lifelong friendship with Dee and her late husband Joe. Ronald never missed a chance to check in on his friends and neighbors Carol, Karen, Bill, Scott, Kat and Linda, especially in times of need. To him, they were family.
He is survived by his children Aaron, Brandon, and Mindy, whom he loved with all his heart, he cherished his grandchildren Gavin, Kaylee, and Miley. He also leaves behind his brothers Roy and Theodore, and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and honorary grandchildren. Coming from a family of eight, Ronald was a grandfather to many—not only by blood, but by heart.
Ronald lived fully, loved fiercely, and left this world with peace in his heart. He will be remembered for his humor, generosity, kindness and friendship and for the way he made everyone feel like family.
“The fear of death follows from the fear of life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time.”
— Mark Twain
Cremation with a celebration of life service will be held at a later date, courtesy Dickey Funeral Home.
