Atha Melissa Mayo Mills, of Cincinnati, Ohio, formerly of Kenova, W.Va. passed peacefully in the early morning hours of Tuesday, August 8, 2023 just one month shy of her 71st birthday. Atha was born on September 8, 1952 to Hershel V. and Emma L. Cunningham Mayo. Atha was a very proud “Wonder” and West Virginian, having graduated from Ceredo-Kenova High School in 1970. She married her high school sweetheart, N. Richard Mills, Sr. the morning of her senior prom. Five years later they welcomed their first child, Jennifer and then their son, Richie, followed two years later. Atha was a very faithful member of Kenova United Methodist Church, having taught Sunday School, served on various committees and volunteered in any way possible. Atha loved children and put that love into action by caring for some very special children that she held near and dear to her heart; “Courtney, Derek, Gabbie, Avery, Griffey, and Levi.” She also shared her love and caring with countless children during her time as a preschool teacher with The Training Station Preschool as well as her time with Playmates Childcare of Kenova. Atha was preceded in death by her parents, Hershel V. Mayo and Emma L. Cunningham Mayo; her loving husband of 32 years, Noah Richard Mills, Sr.; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins and special friends she considered family. Atha is survived by her children, Jennifer Edwards, and Richie Mills, and her son-in-law, Steve Edwards; grandchildren, Riley Jean Mills, Kennedy Ferguson and Noah Edwards; her brothers and sisters-in-law, Doug (Lisa) King, Jimmy (Connie) King, Paul (Jo) King, Darlene (Oz) Kazee and countless nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Atha was born an only child, but held tight to and cherished her friendships both old and new. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kenova United Methodist Church Endowment Fund, 503 15th St. Kenova, W.Va. 25530 or Queen City Hospice, 4605 Duke Dr. Suite, 220, Mason, Ohio, 45040. The family would like to thank her loving and faithful friends, the residents and staff of The Glen Senior Living Community, as well as Queen City Hospice for their love, friendship and unmatched care; everyone should feel as loved, appreciated and cared for as Atha surely did in the last few days of her life. Pallbearers will be, Doug King, Jimmy King, Paul King, Dustin Edwards, Ben Butler, Ken Workman, and honorary pallbearer, Michael Hibbard. Visitation will be conducted on Tuesday, August 15, 2023 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. with the funeral beginning at 1:00 p.m. at the Kenova United Methodist Church with Rev. Andrew Tennant, Rev. Lindsay Thorp and Chaplain Bonnie Bohn officiating. Burial will follow in Woodmere Cemetery. The service will be live streamed on Kenova United Methodist Church Facebook Page. Rollins Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.
Our hearts and prayers go out to you, Jennifer and Richie and your families, upon the death of your mother. Atha was a true woman of God, a prayer warrior, a kind soul, and always a friend and encourager in the hardest of times. I know your loss is great but her influence and love are great. She showed us the way through her faith to find strength, comfort, and peace in the Lord.
With love and prayers, Ford and Carolyn
My thoughts are with the family. She was always so sweet and kind, with a smile on her face every time I saw her.
Our southern bell would always dance the day away! I’ll miss the good morning hugs and I love you! Fly high sweetheart! 💕
Atha was the sweetheart of The Glenn. She always had a hug, kiss and kind words for my Mom. Even before she moved across the hall, we would visit with her when she walked her beloved Buddy-boo. It was an honor to know Atha. Our deepest sympathy to the family.
Atha Mayo was one of our very best “Wonders”, Our Class of “71” was blessed to have her. Your Mother was all goodness and kindness with such a beautiful smile! Prayers and love for your family. 🙏❤️🙏