Jessie L. Mills, 66, of New Baden, died Sunday, December 23, 2007 at his home. He was born January 9, 1941 in Augusta, GA, son of Jessie L. and Mary (Burke) Mills. He married LuElla Dall at St. Peters Cathedral in Belleville on June 18, 1962 and she survives in New Baden.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by a daughter, Cindy Stanton of Highland; a son, Rick Mills and wife Diane of Collinsville, Miss.; five grandchildren, Tammy Ross, Ashley Ross, Thomas Stanton, Jordan Curran and Alexis Mills; one great-grandchild, Kameron Jenkins; one brother, Alvin Mills and wife Camie of Martinez, GA; sisters-in-law, Mary Loepker of Albers and JoAnn Baehr and friend Don of New Baden; he is also survived by nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Margaret and Ted Dall; brothers-in-law, Dick Book and Vic Loepker; and sisters-in-law, Norma Masterson and Judy Singler.

Mr. Mills was retired from Tower Automotive (formerly AO Smith) in Granite City. He was a veteran of United States Air Force, a member of St. George Parish in New Baden and the UAW 3206 in Granite City. Jessie was a former member of the Musicians Union in Belleville and enjoyed camping and playing music with many bands in the area. The family wishes to thank their relatives, friends and neighbors for all their kindness and support during this difficult time.

A funeral mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday December 27, 2007 at St. George Catholic Church in New Baden with Rev. Gene Neff officiating. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in New Baden.

Friends may call from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. Wednesday, December 26, 2007 and from 8 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. Thursday, December 27, 2007 at Hempen Funeral Home in New Baden. There will be a prayer service at 5 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to St. George Building Fund, Family Hospice or to Clinton County Relay For Life and will be received at the funeral home.