He was an award-winning journalist and accomplished author who loved the ocean along with his wide network of family and friends.
A graduate of Gorham High School and Gordon College, Kevin worked for a number of news organizations, including the Boston Globe, before settling into his long-term position with the Sun Journal of Lewiston, where he made his personal and professional home.
In his career, Kevin was the recipient of numerous state and national awards for his feature writings. Most recently, his articles on the state soccer champs from Lewiston obtained national attention for his insight on a story that had more than just sports significance. Such was often true of his writing as he addressed issues beyond the arena.
Kevin’s avocation was writing historical novels. In his extensive research of family history, he uncovered three centuries of seafaring families who were sea captains, boat builders and lighthouse keepers, and then drew inspiration from their stories to create a trilogy of historical novels: “Sea of Liberty,” “Sons and Daughters of the Ocean” and “Breakwater.” He also compiled amusing stories from his journalist career into his book “Sidelined.”
His books are still available online and in bookstores, and his brother, Wesley Mills of York County Community College, has assumed custodial care of printed volumes for those interested.
Kevin’s love of history filled his novels, and his love of the ocean was displayed in his extensive kayaking adventures, frequent voyages on the Victory Chimes, and boat trips with his brother and nephews.
He maintained a devoted connection to family, and was a prominent part of the lives of his four nephews and two nieces, sharing with them his exuberance and generosity during summer gatherings and annual holidays.
Kevin is survived by: his mother, Barbara C. Mills of Gorham; brother Rev. Dr. Wesley J. Mills of Wells; sisters Cynthia F. Mills and Doreen E. McGaff of Boston; six nephews and nieces; and many cousins.
A memorial service is will be held at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 11, at Cressey Road United Methodist Church, 81 Cressey Road, Gorham.
Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland. To share a memory or condolence with the Mills family, please visit their Book of Memories at bchfh.com.
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