Mr. David Edward “Ed” Mills

Mr. David Edward “Ed” Mills, age 74, of Childs Street, Martin, passed away Friday, April 17, 2026, at Northeast Georgia Medical Center after an extended illness.

The son of the late Tyrus Edward Mills and Lou Parker Mills, he was born August 1, 1951, in Stephens County, Georgia, where he lived all his life. Ed was a proud graduate of Stephens County High School, Class of 1969, and Young Harris College, Class of 1971. He completed his master’s degree in education in 1974, at Georgia Southern University. He kept a lifelong affection for his alma maters, actively attended reunions, donated generously to all schools, and worked tirelessly to keep their communities alive and active.

Ed dedicated his life to education and betterment of children. He served as a teacher at Stephens County Middle School from 1974 until 1992, where he became widely beloved and respected by his students and colleagues alike. He was known as a brilliant, attentive and engaging teacher, who never forgot a name and was always compassionate and personable. His sense of humor and trademark “silly” socks and ties—featuring Disney characters and Looney Tunes—delighted students who expected a man in a business suit to be all serious but found instead a big kid at heart who loved making children smile.

Ed went out of his way to ensure his students were doing well, often buying them breakfast, ice cream, or soda. He never judged and was always there to support and encourage them in their dreams. His impact extended far beyond the classroom. He served as Stephens County School Superintendent from 1992 through 1996, later serving as Field Service Director for all superintendents in the State of Georgia. He was one of Georgia’s quarterfinalists in the Teacher in Space Project, a major part of the Challenger Space Shuttle Program, a testament to his superlative quality as an educator and role model.

Ed was a devoted member of Martin Baptist Church and an active member of the YMCA, where he served as a mentor and coached basketball. He was also a proud member of the Toccoa Optimist Club.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Ann Copenhaver Mills.

He is survived by two sons, Jon Mills and Matt Mills, both of Martin, Georgia.

Memorial services will be held Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in the Hillcrest Chapel of the Acree-Davis Funeral Home with The Reverend David Miller officiating.

The family will receive friends at the Acree-Davis Funeral Home on Thursday, April 23, 2026, 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. and on Friday, 5 p.m. until 7 p.m.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.acree-davisfh.com.

Ennichement will follow in the Stephens Memorial Mausoleum.

Acree-Davis Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of the arrangements for Mr. David Edward “Ed” Mills.