John Pinkney Mills, Sr.

The following is a newspaper clipping:

"John Pinkney Mills, age 88, well-known Mooresville merchant and citizen, died last Thursday morning, Feb. 29, at the Lowrance Hospital, where he had been for eight weeks. Mr. Mills had been in declining health for the past year, but with unusual vitality, he would not give up until fatally stricken.

"For nearly three quarters of a century he was prominent in business, education, religious and civic affairs of the town and community, having served as chairman of the board of trustees of the graded school district for many years, and was among the leaders of the advancement of the business interests of Mooresville and community.

"He was a native of Iredell County, having been born in Cool Springs township, April 28, 1851, son of Noble and Amanda McLelland Mills. He spent his boyhood days on the farm while his father served in the Confederate Army. Later he apprenticed as a tanner and was declared a master tanner at an early age.

"In 1872 he came to Mooresville where he entered upon a mercantile career, which was most successful throughout his long life, until a few years ago when he retired. His first job as a clerk was with Carlton Brothers, who opened a store here, having been associated with the late Will Wilson in that experience. He later engaged in business with his father-in-law, Isaac Harris, and brother-in-law, J. Elbert Sherrill. After a time he established the J. P. Mills Company and for more than half a century conducted a very lucrative business, handling general merchandise, drawing trade from this entire trading area, embracing parts of Mecklenburg, Cabarrus, Lincoln, Rowan and Catawba Counties.

"Not only was Mr. Mills a successful business man, but he raised a large family of fine young men and women; he was a kind and indulgent father, a good neighbor and friendly with everyone - an outstanding citizen of pronounced accomplishments.

"Mr. Mills was twice married, his first wife being Miss Clementine E. Harris (b. Apr. 29, 1856, m. Sept. 1, 1875) daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Harris. Mrs. Mills died in 1888. In 1890 Mr. Mills was married to Mrs. Nannie Lathan of Due West, S.C., daughter of the late Robert Lathan.

"Funeral serviced were held Friday afternoon at 3:30 at the First Presbyterian Church by Dr. R. A. White, Dr. I. N. Kennedy and Dr. R. S. Wilson. Interment was made in Willow Valley Cemetery.

"The city schools, in memory of Mr. Mills, closed at 2:45 Friday and many business houses also closed during the funeral hour."