Longtime Paris, Texas Resident Willie Kathryn Mills Dies at 98

Mills was a dedicated community volunteer and member of Emberson Baptist Church.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Willie Kathryn Mills, a 98-year-old resident of Sumner, Texas, passed away on Monday, February 16, 2026, surrounded by her family. Bright-Holland Funeral Home has scheduled services for 2:00 p.m. on Friday, February 20th at Emberson Baptist Church, where Mills was a longtime member. She had a long career with Britz Department Store in Houston and was known for her tireless volunteer work raising money for the Scottish Rite Hospital for Children and the Shriners Hospital for Children.

Why it matters

Willie Kathryn Mills was a fixture in the Paris, Texas community for decades, known for her community service and dedication to helping children's charities. Her passing marks the end of an era for the region and highlights the importance of community leaders and volunteers in small towns.

The details

Mills was born on December 27, 1927, in Hartman, Arkansas. She attended school in Arkansas and graduated from John H. Reagan High School in Houston, where she was in the band and played the clarinet. She worked at Britz Department Store in Houston for many years. Mills was a member of the Eastern Star and was heavily involved in fundraising for the Scottish Rite Hospital for Children and the Shriners Hospital for Children, receiving numerous awards over the years for her dedication.

  • Willie Kathryn Mills passed away on Monday, February 16, 2026.
  • Funeral services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Friday, February 20, 2026.

The players

Willie Kathryn Mills

A 98-year-old resident of Sumner, Texas who passed away on February 16, 2026. She was a longtime member of Emberson Baptist Church and was known for her community service and volunteer work.

Bright-Holland Funeral Home

The funeral home that has scheduled services for Willie Kathryn Mills.

Emberson Baptist Church

The church where Willie Kathryn Mills' funeral services will be held.

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The takeaway

Willie Kathryn Mills' passing marks the end of an era for the Paris, Texas community, where she was known as a dedicated community leader and volunteer who made a lasting impact through her tireless work for children's charities over many decades.