Morris "Hap" Mills III

It is with great sorrow that we write this obituary to honor Hap Mills, formally Morris Eugene Mills III, who died in his sleep on June 3, 2023. Hap was lovingly birthed at home in Benson, Arizona on October 9, 1978, a rather large baby who would go on to become a gifted musician, an incredible builder and problem-solver, a lover of cats, a proud father, and a gentle giant with a generous heart. Hap took great joy and pride in his abilities as a musician. At the age of three, he told his mom he wanted a drum and a copy of “Another One Bites the Dust,” by Queen. His interest in drums and music continued, and he became a section leader in his nationally recognized high school band. Hap died with his high school drumline t-shirt still folded at the bottom of his dresser drawer. One could miss seeing Hap’s genius, as he was a humble man. Yet he was a gifted writer, a natural mathematician, and was quick to learn Spanish without the benefit of formal instruction. Employers and family called upon him for all manner of projects–one day he might be fixing doors that no one else could figure out, designing and building counters and office spaces, fixing irrigation, or welding and the next he might close a shrewdly negotiated business deal. Hap once saw an intricately built swing at a home show and went home and recreated it, balancing and fitting joints of wood together perfectly without the benefit of nails, and lovingly decorating it for his first daughter, who he affectionately called “Little.” Hap’s heart was large, generous, and loving. He could not say no to rescuing a cat and could be found coaxing them out of drain pipes, rescuing them from parking lots, and dreaming of a time when he might be rich enough to start a “kitty city” teaming with rescued felines. If you called late enough you might catch him laying down with his cats, crooning to them as if they were babies. Hap loved his family dearly. He is survived by the greatest joys of his life, his children Emily, Gage, and Savanna Mills; by his siblings, Amanda Blacow, Justin Mills, Janna Cook, and Tiffany Dee; and by his mother Melanie Cook (Don Cook). He was preceded in death by his father, Morris Eugene Mills Jr., who he remained devoted to all of his life. In the end, Hap’s heart was perhaps too large and too gentle for this world. Hap’s favorite childhood stories included Ferdinand, a story about a bull who would rather sit and smell the flowers in the arena than fight the matadors who taunted him. Like Ferdinand, Hap attracted people who looked to prove themselves tough on an oversized man who wanted peace, respect, and friendship. He struggled with the wounds of abuse that eventually broke his heart. Hap, we hope you are free to smell the flowers now and rest without the pain and the shame you carried for so long. We love you. Request for Memories Hap Mills’ Memorial Book and Celebration of Life When Hap passed away on June 3, he left three children and a grieving family. At just 44 years old, he should have been with us much longer. As his mother, I am putting together a book of memories that will allow his children to know him better and to provide comfort and a smile to all of us. It is my hope that people will also share a memory with the group during Hap’s service (time and place to be determined). Please write up your memory of a time with Hap or something about him you admired and send it to Melanie Cook at mcook8979@gmail.com. You could also take a picture of a handwritten piece and text it to me at (970)560-2680. It needn’t be long and could even be a song or poem. Please have these to me by July 3 so that I have time to compile them and make the book. Thank you very much. It means a lot. Please join us for a memorial service to celebrate the life of Morris Eugene Mills, III, better known as Hap. We will gather together at 5:00 pm on August 5, 2023, at The Sea of Glass at 330 East 7th Street in Tucson, Arizona to remember this amazing man who will be greatly missed. Please bring your fondest memories of Hap to share with family and friends.

Morris "Hap" Mills III

October 9, 1978 - June 3, 2023