Bob Dean Mills

Bob Dean Mills, 84, of Salem, Va., and originally Sophia, W.V., passed away on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

Bob was born to the late Charles Gordon and Verna Elizabeth Bryant Mills in Sophia, W.V., on Tuesday, January 13, 1942. In addition to his parents, Bob was also preceded in death by his daughter, Angela Elizabeth Tingler; brother, Charles Mills; and sister-in-law, Dessie Lowe.

Bob graduated from Sophia High School in 1959, before going on to pursue further studies. Bob earned his bachelor's degree from Concord College, and later his master's and doctorate degrees from West Virginia University. Education was a great passion of his, and after receiving his higher education, Bob served as a principal in Morgantown, West Virginia, and also taught at Richmond University. Later, Bob served as a fifth-grade teacher in Hanover County, reflecting his profound love and talent for working with children. Bob loved and cherished his kids, and they loved him in return. Bob also found joy in attending flea markets, finding much pride in the treasures he found. He had a passion for collecting a wide variety of items, but most special to him was Pepsi memorabilia. Bob touched so many people in his lifetime, and he will be dearly missed, especially by his loving family.

Left to cherish Bob's memory are his wife of 63 years, Margoline Riggs Mills; brother, Paul Roger Mills (Nancy); grandchildren, Amber Elizabeth and Kiendre Lynn Tingler; and son-in-law, Mark Tingler.

A service will be held in honor of Bob's life at 2:00 p.m., on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, in the chapel of John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem, with Chaplain Bobby Pickle officiating. Friends are warmly invited to a period of visitation from 1:00 p.m. until the hour of the service.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.