WARM tributes have been paid to an 87-year-old who was a very active member of the Minchinhampton community.
John Peter Mills, was born in 1937 in Stockport near Manchester to Allen and Amy Mills, growing up alongside his brother, also called Alan.
Amidst the challenges of World War II, he often recalled hearing flying bombs overhead.
His father’s involvement in RAF aircraft maintenance led to moves to Charmy Down and Chippenham.
John’s love for jazz and skiffle music blossomed during his national service with the RAF while stationed in Germany where he heard the Chris Barber jazz band for the first time.
He performed three years of national service before settling in Bath, where he embraced a bohemian lifestyle, working in pottery and immersing himself in the local jazz scene.
In Bath, his interests evolved to include the folk revival scene, where he was a founding member of the Bath Folk Club and met his first wife, Mo, with whom he had a son, Tim.
Later, he formed the duo “Pumpkin Pie” with Norma, marrying her in 1978 and having two children, Holly and Martin.
Despite parting ways with Norma they remained close friends for life, and John embraced his love of travel, making many trips on his folding bike, as cycling was another of his passions.
His travels included a six month tour of Australia and even living in a caravan on Tenerife.
In 2002, illness brought him back to the UK, where he settled at George Pearce house in Minchinhampton.
In the twenty years at Minchinhampton, John became very involved with the community.
Son Martin said: "He was very active with events happening at George Pearce House and played Father Christmas at Christmas gatherings.
"He initiated the Minchinhampton Folk Club and regularly supported charitable causes like the Meningitis Trust through busking and sponsored events, including a cycle trip to Thailand.
"Despite health challenges, dad remained resilient until the end, spending his last 18 months at High Border Lodge, Leonard Stanley, where he received excellent compassionate care.
"His legacy lives on through his love for music, travel, and community engagement."
His funeral will take place on Tuesday, May 14 at 11.30am in the Woodland Chapel at Westerleigh Crematorium, followed by refreshments and music at the Wishing Well, Codrington.
All friends welcome.
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